Management of COPD using the Roper-Logan-Tierney framework.

This article reviews the health condition of a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It discusses the use of the Roper-Logan-Tierney activities of daily living framework model, in conjunction with the nursing process to identify the patient's main priorities for nursing care. COPD is the fifth most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the UK. It is a chronic illness often caused by smoking. The disease is a life-long illness and can affect all aspects of the person's life. Furthermore, exacerbations are often poorly controlled resulting in more frequent admissions to hospital, placing more pressure on patients, nurses and healthcare services. Aspects of care related to breathing, eating and drinking, and maintaining a safe environment are explored. The nursing process, as a systemic tool, can help in identifying and understanding the individual needs of patients and aid in establishing patient-centred therapeutic care.