Respiratory Disease Management

Patients assigned to the RT management arm will receive a 1-hour educational in-service conducted by a respiratory therapist case manager. The patient education session will include general information about COPD, direct observation of inhaler techniques, a review and adjustment of outpatient COPD medications, smoking cessation counseling, recommendations concerning influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations, encouragement of regular exercise, and instruction in hand hygiene.

Routine respiratory care.