A client is admitted to the hospital with abrupt symptoms of increasing shortness of breath, fever, and a productive cough with green sputum. Upon further exam the client is diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation. The nurse identifies this as which type of illness?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

COPD is a chronic illness characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities. The exacerbation described indicates an acute episode or worsening of the underlying chronic condition, not a new or separate acute illness.

A Client Is Admitted to the Hospital with Abrupt Symptoms