The following points are merely intended as aids to help you ask the
questions you need to know. They're NOT all inclusive but it's a start.
It's also wise to have someone with you to jot down answers or to simply help
you to remember. This is also assuming you've
had a breathing test and do in fact have COPD.
Please
explain the test results and what they mean
What
exactly do I have and what stage am I?
What
treatments are there? What do they include, and do? Are they the latest
medicines or treatments?
(If
you're on Disability)....ask if the medicines are covered. If no; ask how
you/he or she/ can get them covered
How
often and how should they be taken?
What
can I expect from these medicines or treatment? When will I notice a change?
Are
there any side effects?
What
can I do to slow things down ? (This might include lifestyle changes, type
of exercises, meds etc)
Is
there anything I should avoid or need to change while taking these meds or treatments? (This may
include your current meds for an unrelated illness.)
Can
someone teach or show me how to use my medicines properly?
Under
what circumstances do I need to call you?
When
can I get a flu and pneumonia vaccine?
When
should I see you again?
If
I can't reach you, what do I do in an emergency?
Will you prescribe antibiotics for me to have on
hand at home? Under what circumstances do I begin them; better
still.....Would you fill out an Action Plan
for me? (You
can print off a copy at the Canadian Thoracic Society's Website at
http://www.lung.ca/pdf/1408_THOR_ActionPlan_v3.pdf
Do
I need, or would I benefit from a rehab clinic? If yes; will you be
recommending it? When can I expect to get in?