Using mucolytics in the management of COPD symptoms

Sputum production is a common feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but for some patients, it is difficult to clear, leaving them potentially vulnerable to respiratory infections.

This resource will examine the rationale for mucolytic therapy in the management of patients with COPD. It will discuss the use of mucolytic therapies based on current evidence, and where the use of mucolytics is recommended in international and UK COPD guidelines.

The management of bedwetting

Bedwetting – nocturnal enuresis – is a common disorder that can have a significant impact on a child’s school performance, social and psychological function, and quality of life both for the child and their parents or carers.¹

Once considered a problem that the child would simply grow out of, it is a treatable condition, and general practice nurses should provide accurate and timely advice and intervention when it is reported.

Diagnosis of heart failure

Heart failure is the leading cause of hospitalisations in the over 65s and has a high prevalence in patients attending for regular review of long term illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD). General practice nurses play a vital role in the management of patients with long term conditions, and are therefore in an ideal position to identify the early signs and symptoms of heart failure in patients that are most at risk of developing this condition.