Question

What are some psychosocial nursing diagnosis for a COPD patient?

Answer 1

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive lung disease characterised by dyspnea and cough.
COPD patients may psychosocial disorders which often remains undiagnosed by the healthcare team. The psychosocial symptoms mostly occur due to systemic infection and low arterial oxygen affecting the brain function, functional limitations, longer hospital stays and poor quality of life. Increased dependency on others for assistance on daily living activities also results in development of psychological disorders in COPD patient.
Some of the common psychosocial disorders seen in COPD patient are :

1. Depression

2. Anxiety attacks

3. Panic attacks

4. Personality disorders such as bipolar disorder

5. Increased aggression

6. Social isolation

Psychosocial disorders in COPD can be managed through counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation techniques, meditation and pharmacological interventions.