Final answer:
Pulmonary rehabilitation can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients but does not directly improve survival rates. It may potentially reduce the need for supplemental oxygen depending on the patient's condition. The program focuses on exercise, education, and support to enhance a patient's respiratory function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of exercise, education, and support to help patients learn to breathe—and function—at the highest level possible. It has been shown to improve the quality of life for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). While it does not necessarily improve survival rates directly, it contributes to overall well-being and helps patients manage their condition more effectively.
Regarding the need for supplemental oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation may improve breathing techniques and enhance physical conditioning, thereby potentially reducing the need for supplemental oxygen. However, the degree to which oxygen therapy can be reduced depends on the individual patient and the severity of their COPD.
It is well-established that pulmonary rehabilitation can lead to significant improvements in a COPD patient's quality of life. This includes reductions in symptoms like shortness of breath, increased exercise capacity, and a better ability to perform daily activities without severe respiratory limitations.