Physical activity is now recommended for all patients with COPD. Exercising within their limits will help patients with breathlessness and also strengthen their muscles. Think about whether a patient could benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and pharmacists should make sure that they know how to refer. 

Pulmonary rehabilitation includes locally run classes, with a mix of education, manageable activity (exercise), breathing retraining, nutritional advice and psychological support. Referral is usually for all people with a COPD MRC score of 3 or above. If the patient is not appropriate for PR referral, they may still be able to be referred to a local exercise scheme.

Reflection exercise

List three actions that you already take to improve outcomes for people living with COPD. After completing this module, review your list and add two new actions that will help your COPD patients.