Keywords

acute respiratory failure, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD, dyspnea, emphysema, hypercapnia, hypoxemia, mechanical ventilation

Authors

1. Siela, Debra PhD, RN, CCNS, ACNS-BC, CCRN-K, CNE, RRT

Abstract

Abstract: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that lead to acute respiratory failure usually require hospitalization. Understanding the pathophysiology of COPD and what leads to acute respiratory failure in these patients is important. Nurses must be able to determine appropriate evidence-based care management of these patients to work effectively with the healthcare team.