Benefits of attending a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Since winter months lend to exacerbations of COPD and other lung issues, and with the increased number of people struggling to recover from respiratory issues after Covid 19, I wanted to highlight some information and evidence based research to guide our patient care.  

Although it can be taxing for a patient to leave the house, recent research suggests it may well be worth it! Many studies have found patients to have positive outcomes after participating in Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs. A recent study even found decreased mortality rates for patients with COPD, who participated in a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. We need to make sure our patients understand the scientific benefits of attending outpatient programs!

What if a patient doesn’t want to attend Pulmonary Rehabilitation?

Many home care patients I have had in the past have not felt comfortable or safe with attending outpatient programs.  They have preferred to work on their home program from Home Health Care as they recover. As Home Care clinicians we should educate our patients in the best practices. However, If they are not willing or able to attend an outpatient program, It is important that we make sure our care is thorough, and follows the guidelines of a PR program (as appropriate). 

The American Lung Association does a great job of describing the components of a pulmonary rehabilitation program. A good Pulmonary Rehab program should include:

Another important part of self care is teaching our patient to keep track of vitals faithfully.

Check out this pulse oximeter (affiliate link) to monitor your oxygen and heart rate at home.

And also, consider this blood pressure cuff to monitor blood pressure daily. (affiliate link)

And to keep track, click here for a printable FREEBIE of one of my patient handouts- use this for yourself or to help your patient monitor vitals at home: right click and save to desktop to print.

There is so much for a patient and family to learn to mange a respiratory illness! Nursing and therapy can work together to make sure the patient has the help they need, and to reinforce each other’s education.  We can make sure they are set up for long term success with thorough patient education handouts, organized information, and a well thought out plan for long term self care.  (Also available for individual purchase)

Other posts you may like:

Respiratory Recovery with a FREEBIE educational handout!

Better Breathing

Safety Equipment Recommendations

I would love to hear what you think. What have you found to be helpful? What else do you include in respiratory care? Subscribe to the blog for a few printable freebies, tips and information on senior care.