Preserving Pulmonary Function: A Palliative Intervention

摘要

Morbidity and mortality rates from advanced symptomatic pulmonary disease (APD) is a global concern. Of the 10 leading causes of death worldwide, 3 are pulmonary conditions. Ensuring accurate diagnosis and differentiating between obstructive and restrictive airways disease determines optimal patient outcomes. Palliative interventions offer aggressive symptom management, reducing incidence of exacerbation and hospitalization, preserving pulmonary function, and maintaining physical function. APD patients have a complex set of issues requiring an interdisciplinary team. Astute providers ensure a coordinated balance by managing symptoms and preserving pulmonary function throughout the disease trajectory and into death through the use and implementation of current guidelines. (C) 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.