Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a common condition that can lead to hospitalisation and disability. In selected cases, use of a non-invasive home ventilator can reduce the risk of hospital admission and improve patient wellbeing. New research has provided insights into how this treatment can be delivered in a rational and more effective way. In this educational activity we review this topic with the help of international experts with extensive clinical experience in the care of severe COPD patients.

Educational Series

The programme will provide a series of educational modules, each with a different but related focus. The first two modules are available now, with additional modules forthcoming.  

TARGET AUDIENCE

This activity is intended for medical professionals with an interest in the management of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease including (but not limited to) respiratory physicians, intensivists, physiotherapists, respiratory therapists, respiratory specialist nurses and nurse practitioners.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 

1. Appreciate the importance of expiratory flow limitation in COPD and understand how flow limitation during tidal breathing can be detected using oscillometry.

2. Describe the current approaches to non-invasive ventilatory support in COPD and their limitations.

3. Recognise the steps necessary to validate a new mode of ventilatory support and its practical application to patients.

4. Discuss the optimal patient profile for ventilation that abolishes tidal expiratory flow limitation and the challenges to meet in applying this therapy.

COMMERCIAL SUPPORT STATEMENT

This activity has been supported by funding from Philips Respironics.

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE PROVIDER

Academic and technical resource services have been provided by Dane Garvin Ltd.