COPD and Home Safety (The Elephant in the Room)
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COPD and Home Safety (The Elephant in the Room)

We added a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This client has not been following their care plan and has been hospitalized multiple times this year. (Patients with COPD and stroke victims are twice likely to be readmitted to the hospital within 90days of release) Our main goal is to keep the client from being readmitted. We partnered with their home health agency to develop a comprehensive care plan.

The core of the program is to take maintenance medications as directed and have emergency prescriptions handy. However, that is only a piece of the program. This newsletter will focus on suggestions to make the living environment safer for anyone with breathing issues.

 

Overview

COPD is a chronic, progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. Although it is not curable, it is treatable, and steps can be taken to prevent more damage and maximize the function that remains. According to the American Lung Association, COPD is the third leading cause of death. The ALA also reports that more than 13.1 million adults are estimated to have COPD.

(http://www.lungusa.org/lung-disease)

 

Signs of COPD:

Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity

Wheezing

Chest tightness

A chronic cough that may produce mucus (sputum) that may be clear, white, yellow or greenish

Frequent respiratory infections

Lack of energy

Unintended weight loss (in later stages)

Swelling in ankles, feet or legs

People with COPD are also likely to experience episodes called exacerbations, during which their symptoms become worse than the usual day-to-day variation and persist for  several days.

 

You’ll want to check with your doctor if any symptoms are getting worse.

 

See your doctor or go to the ER immediately if you can’t catch your breath, have a rapid heart rate, can’t concentrate or notice blue lips/fingernails(cyanosis).

 

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics, let’s look at 10 specific ways to make your home safer.

1. Use a shower chair

Taking a shower can be a Herculean chore. It simply takes a lot of energy to stand, bathe, and hold your arms above your head when washing your hair.

Using a shower chair can prevent you from exacerbating your condition. Sitting down alleviates frequent bending. And when you’re able to conserve energy, there’s a lower risk of injury from a fall or slip.

2. Ventilate the bathroom

Steam increases the humidity level in the bathroom. This can generate coughing episodes.

To avoid this problem, only shower in well-ventilated bathrooms. If possible, shower with the door open, crack a bathroom window or use an exhaust fan.

If these suggestions aren’t viable options, use a portable fan to vent the bathroom while showering.

3. Don’t allow smoking in your home

Many cases of COPD are due to smoking. Exposure to cigarette smoke can cause a flare-up or worsen your symptoms. Even trace amounts of smoke like guests bring in from smoking outside can cause coughing fits.

(Note - Seeing a family member start to light up in a room with Oxygen is scary…..)

4. Replace your carpet

Carpet can trap many pollutants like pet dander, dust, smoke and other allergens. We’ve recommended pulling his carpet and exposing his hardwood floors to remove pollutants.

It the client doesn’t pull the carpet, we recommended vacuuming weekly and getting a deep steam clean at least once per year.

5. Get an air purifier

An air purifier can remove allergens and other pollutants and irritants from the air. For top-notch filtration, choose an air purifier with a HEPA filter.

Note – Do not use the “ozone” modes when at home because they can also aggravate breathing conditions.

6. Don’t use harsh chemicals

Some chemicals used to dust, mop, or disinfect homes could potentially irritate your symptom and trigger breathlessness.

Look for natural or non-toxic items that are free of perfumes. As far as cleaning goes, consider making your own natural household cleaners. There are plenty of options you can produce using vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, and water.

7. Eliminate clutter

The less clutter in your home, the better. Clutter is a breeding ground for dust which will impact breathing. Declutter shelves, desks, tables, corners, and bookcases to make dusting more efficient and effective.

8. Have your AC and ducts inspected

This is an aspect of home maintenance you might skip, but it’s important if you have COPD.

Mold and mildew in your home can go undetected and make your condition worse. Each year, schedule an air conditioning inspection for mold, and have your ductwork inspected for mildew.

Also, having your vents professionally cleaned can clean up your air, especially if you have fur babies…

9. Avoid stairs

Climbing stars can leave someone breathless and potentially lead to damaging falls. Consider planning to live on one floor or install a stair lift. At a minimum, put in a stable chair and plan to take a break on the stair landing.

10. Get a portable oxygen tank

If needed, talk to your doctor about getting a portable tank. These are lightweight and compact, and because they’re designed to be portable, you can take them from room to room without tripping over a cord.

Using a portable oxygen tank also makes it easier to travel outside the house, giving you independence and improving your quality of life.

Remember, oxygen feeds fire. Make sure you know how to use it safely. Keep a fire extinguisher in your home as a precaution.

FOR GOODNESS SAKE, DON’T SMOKE AROUND O2!! No smoking signs can serve as a reminder.

Skilled caregivers working alongside medical professionals is a proven combination to help seniors age in place with dignity. Call today for a free in-home assessment.