Introduction
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common chronic
condition associated with a rapidly increasing physical, social, and
economic burden in terms of both direct healthcare costs including
hospitalisations and medication and indirect costs (productivity loss,
work absenteeism, premature retirement). 1 It is estimated that
approximately 210 million people worldwide have COPD, 2 and its
incidence is believed to be rising. 3 Mortality predictions suggest that
COPD will become the third leading cause of death in 2020 and the
fourth leading cause of death in 2030. 4 There is therefore an urgent
need to develop innovative COPD management models. In this
context, nurses are uniquely positioned to make a substantial
contribution as they are often the first point of contact for patients
and are actively engaged throughout the disease management
process, frequently providing palliative care.
In this discussion paper we explore the role of nurses in the
management of COPD and highlight some of the barriers which are
currently preventing nurses from expanding and strengthening their
role. We also suggest some possible strategies to help nurses
overcome these obstacles.