Charles A Downs1.
Abstract
PURPOSE: To describe available methods for assessing functional capacity in persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). DATA SOURCES: An extensive literature review is used to provide pertinent information.
CONCLUSIONS: COPD disease affects millions of Americans and is physically and psychologically distressing. The hallmark of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is irreversible airflow limitation and dyspnea. Dyspnea is a major contributor to decreased exercise capacity and functional status in this population. Understanding the methods to complete a functional assessment is important for all practitioners caring for this population. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This paper provides an overview of current methods used to assess functional status, including pulmonary function testing, exercise testing, and anthropomorphic and self-report measurements. In addition, there is discussion of the indications and contraindications for exercise testing in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the clinical significance of performing a global composite of functional ability. ©2011 The Author(s) Journal compilation ©2011 American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
PURPOSE: To describe available methods for assessing functional capacity in persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). DATA SOURCES: An extensive literature review is used to provide pertinent information.
CONCLUSIONS: COPD disease affects millions of Americans and is physically and psychologically distressing. The hallmark of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is irreversible airflow limitation and dyspnea. Dyspnea is a major contributor to decreased exercise capacity and functional status in this population. Understanding the methods to complete a functional assessment is important for all practitioners caring for this population. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This paper provides an overview of current methods used to assess functional status, including pulmonary function testing, exercise testing, and anthropomorphic and self-report measurements. In addition, there is discussion of the indications and contraindications for exercise testing in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the clinical significance of performing a global composite of functional ability. ©2011 The Author(s) Journal compilation ©2011 American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
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Mesh：
Year: 2011
PMID： 21489009 DOI： 10.1111/j.1745-7599.2011.00602.x
Source DB: PubMed Journal: J Am Acad Nurse Pract ISSN： 1041-2972