Knowledge and use of spirometry for the detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by primary care physicians

Knowledge and use of spirometry for the detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by primary care physicians

ARTICLE IN PRESS Nursing Research suggests that the achieved COPD QOF points are the lowest of any of the clinical areas. This is some what disappoint...

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ARTICLE IN PRESS Nursing Research suggests that the achieved COPD QOF points are the lowest of any of the clinical areas. This is some what disappointing, considering that consultation rates for COPD are high, and that it is estimated that by 2020 COPD is predicted to be the third leading cause of death worldwide. In order to improve the care of patients with COPD, the author indicates the importance of training in primary care around the use of spirometry and the interpretation of results and ongoing management. This should be supported by a robust call and recall system to enable patients to have regular reviews.

149 between lung function and treatment pathways for patients, quality control in relation to calibration of equipment, and the lack of time and the costs associated with the time to undertake testing. On completion of the questionnaire/analysis practices were then offered a 60-min educational workshop on spirometry. These workshops were well received and in the short term did improve spirometry screening. The authors conclude that general knowledge and the use of spirometry in the primary care community is poor, but can be improved with education. 10.1016/j.rmedu.2006.03.005

10.1016/j.rmedu.2006.03.004

Knowledge and use of spirometry for the detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by primary care physicians Respir Care 2005;50(12):1639–47

D.A. Kaminsky, T.W. Marcy, M. Bachand, C.G. Irvin

Commentary The goal of this American study was to assess the level of knowledge and use of spirometry for the detection of COPD by primary care practices. The authors conducted a brief questionnaire which was mailed to all the local practices. This questionnaire focused on background information about the practice and the size of their patient population, smoking history along with specific questions about the use of spirometry, interpretation of results and the barriers to using spirometry in the practice. Some of the reasons for not performing spirometry were identified as a lack of knowledge about performing the test and interpreting the results, the lack of awareness about the strong associations

End of life decisions and respiratory care Nurs Times Respir Suppl 2006;102(7)

S. Prigmore

Commentary In this article the author demonstrates with the use of a case study how practitioners providing care for patients with chronic respiratory conditions decide whether treatment interventions are beneficial and when it is appropriate to withdraw treatment. The case study highlights how Beauchamp and Childress (2001) ethical framework can help to support discussions around ethical issues and enhance decision making. It is recognised that the management of endstage non-malignant respiratory disease is disjointed. The author suggests that nurses caring for patients with end-stage respiratory disease are in a prime position to support the patient, family and carers, and the multidisciplinary team with making plans for end-of-life decisions. 10.1016/j.rmedu.2006.03.006