Chronic Respiratory Disease

Supporting improved management of chronic respiratory disease in the community (formerly Peak Flow).  Clients referred to the Chronic Respiratory Disease stream are seen by a Respiratory Physician, Respiratory Nurse Consultant and a Physiotherapist as a means to supporting their GP to manage the client in the community.

SERVICES INCLUDE:
Self management education is provided by the Respiratory Nurse Consultant.  The education seeks to enhance client knowledge about their condition, their medication and dosing techniques, and early recognition of worsening respiratory failure.

Other services provided include physiotherapy assessment, education and the implementation of an individualised physiotherapy program aimed at improving effectiveness of airway clearance and keeping the client as fit as possible.  The physiotherapist can help the client to understand how their lungs work, how to and why they should exercise and how to do activities with less shortness of breath.

Respiratory review: Following acceptance on to the program, usually in the acute setting, clients are followed up in Chronic Respiratory Disease Clinic about 3 weeks after discharge from hospital where assessment is made by the Respiratory Physician, Respiratory Nurse Consultant and Physiotherapist.

Ongoing follow up: An initial home visit may be done by the Respiratory Nurse Consultant with a self management plan devised and further follow up is carried out via telephone, home visits or further clinic consultations.

Psychological needs are assessed and if necessary clients are referred to community psychologists or, if eligible, Care in Context psychological services. Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program referral is also completed.

Eligibility

Two Southern Health Emergency Department presentations with respiratory disease in past 6 months and is at risk of presentation.

Cost

There is no cost for the Chronic Respiratory Disease service.

Referral

Once the referral is received an initial assessment is done to check suitability.  Clients are then contacted to get consent if they are eligible.

No Service Co-ordination Orientation Tool (SCTT) is necessary.  Recent Lung Function Test results are recommended.

Chronic Respiratory Disease works with adults and can provide support to patients for up to one year.

Contact Details