Cystic fibrosis is a non-curable genetic disease that affects mucus production and clearance in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Respiratory therapists interact with patients with cystic fibrosis throughout the stages of the disease: diagnosis in early childhood and disease progression through adulthood. It is important for respiratory therapists to not only understand the underlying physiology of the disease and how it is diagnosed but also what available treatment interventions should be used at any given phase of the disease process. The respiratory therapist can contribute to the multidisciplinary care plan of the patient with cystic fibrosis to promote the best lung health as well as quality of life. This presentation will detail the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis as well as the various diagnostic tools and current treatment strategies.
Presented by Dabney Eidson, BS, RRT, RRT-NPS
This Live AARC webcast is approved for 1.0 CRCE
This activity has been funded through educational grants from Chiesi and Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
- Identify key features of the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis, including physical assessment findings
- Discuss the various diagnostic tools available for assessing progression of cystic fibrosis lung disease
- Relate available intervention strategies for cystic fibrosis as applicable to the patient’s condition and co-morbidities