Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is prevalent in 10-15% of the population over the age of 55. It is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States. This program discusses the benefits of water-based versus land-based exercises in the care of COPD patients. Incorporating pulmonary rehabilitation and exercise regimens into the plan of care for chronic lung disease patients has been shown to improve quality of life.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• explain a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program and why it is utilized with COPD patients.
• identify conditions appropriate for pulmonary rehabilitation.
• explain why water-based pulmonary exercise may be more appropriate for some patients with COPD.
• identify equipment needed to perform water-based pulmonary exercise.
• discuss methods used in pulmonary rehabilitation programs to evaluate patient outcomes.