Empowering people to self manage COPD with management plans and hand held records

Robinson, Terry MSc, BSc, Dip Health Studies, RGN

Terry Robinson MSc, BSc, Dip Health Studies, RGN, is respiratory nurse specialist at Harrogate District Foundation Trust.

Nursing Times 106(38):p 12-14, September 28, 2010.

ABSTRACT

Robinson T (2010) Empowering people to self manage COPD with management plans and hand held records.Nursing Times;106:38, 12–14.

Patients with long term conditions are being encouraged to manage their condition. This article describes how a self management plan, in the form of a hand held record for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, was developed and implemented following consultation with patients and the multidisciplinary team. The record aimed to improve communication between professionals and services and enhance continuity of care.

People with long term conditions should be involved in developing self management tools. A trust consulted patients to meet their information needs