Abstract des Autors

Pulmonary rehabilitation aims at attaining an optimal functioning of the patient, a maximal quality of life, and a highest possible level of health, for patients with chronic (obstructive) pulmonary diseases. The treatment is given by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare workers. The starting point of the treatment is an evaluation of the impairments and disabilities of the patient: where and what are the limitations for exercise performance. The treatment should contain elements of education, nutritional support, psycho-social support, and exercise- and agility-training. Prior to rehabilitation, the medication should be optimised, and a non-smoking policy should be started. After rehabilitation, a maintenance program should prevent a relapse into inactivity and disability. Verf.-Referat