Question

In October 2014, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services expanded readmission penalties to include those patients admitted with an exacerbation of COPD. Patient education is a key component in preventing readmission.

Initial Discussion Post:

• What is a priority teaching intervention that the nurse must implement for these patients and how will it play a role in preventing readmission?
• Identify a member of the interprofessional team and a teaching point that they can contribute to the teaching plan.

Answer 1

1. The priority teaching intervention that the nurse must implement for COPD patients to prevent readmission as follows: Educate the client to avoid crowds and polluted area. Encourage the patient to breathe fresh air. Teach the patient to do regular deep breathing and coughing exercises. Educate the patient to take protein rich diet. Advice the patient to follow strict medication regimen. Avoid taking allergic foods and medications. Educate the patient to undergo regular physiotherapy. Thereby following these health advices, the patient can prevent readmission.

2. Interprofessional team members such as nurse, physiotherapist can educate the client. The teaching points must include about diet, regular exercise, hygienic place, unpolluted environment, medication regimen etc.. These teaching points can contribute to the teaching plan.