pulmonary disorders
Treatment of Acute COPD Exacerbation
End of Life Care
In patients with very severe disease, exercise is unwarranted and activities of daily living are arranged to minimize energy expenditure. For example, patients may arrange to live on one floor of the house, have several small meals rather than fewer large meals, and avoid wearing shoes that must be tied. The Dying Patient should be discussed, including whether to pursue mechanical ventilation, the use of palliative sedation, and appointment of a surrogate medical decision-maker in the event of the patient’s incapacitation. 