Patient Education Living Well with COPD Booklet | Page 20

Staying Healthy
Follow Your Self-
Management Plan
Help Prevent Infection
A cold or respiratory illness can be more
serious when you have COPD. It is
impossible to avoid all germs, but taking
the following precautions will help you
stay healthy.
• Keep the copy found in the front
pocket of this book in a place where
you can easily refer to it.
• Use the plan to help you learn what
actions to take with your level of
symptoms — the green, yellow, or
red zone.
Handwashing
Handwashing is the best way to prevent
the spread of germs.
• Talk with your healthcare provider
about your plan and what other
actions you may need to take.
• Wash your hands often using warm
water and soap. Rub well for at least
20 seconds.
• Dry your hands with clean paper
towels.
Keep Your Appointments
Let your healthcare provider know: • Use hand sanitizer or wipes when you
are not near a sink.
• What your concerns or fears are so
they can be addressed. Vaccines
• Get the fl u vaccine every year.
• If you are having problems taking or
are not taking all of your medicines.
• Get the pneumonia vaccines — check
with your healthcare provider.
• If you have seen another healthcare
provider who changed any of your
medicine, or if you are not able to do
other parts of your treatment plan.
Mouth and Teeth Care
Caring for your teeth and gums is
important because mouth germs can
travel to other parts of the body.
Stay Active
• See your dentist at least every 6
months, even if you have dentures.
Staying active is very important to both
your physical and mental health.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
for at least 2 minutes.
• Follow your exercise plan.
• Floss at least once a day.
• Check with your healthcare provider
about pulmonary rehabilitation or
outpatient therapy.
• Get a new toothbrush every 2 to 3
months and after getting over an
infection.
• Get out and about doing things you
enjoy. Don’t confi ne yourself to your
home.
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