Att leva med kroniskt obstruktiv lungsjukdom, KOL. En litteraturstudie om patienters upplevelser av KOL och sjuksköterskans stödjande och vägledande roll.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can limit patients physical abilities and contribute to social isolation. The purpose of this literature study is to investigate men's and women's experiences of living with chronic obstructive pulmonary dis-ease, and the supporting and guiding role of the nurse to an increased quality of life. 13 critical reviewed articles were used to find the answers to our questions. Quality rating forms were used in order to guarantee a good scientific quality. The results show that, it is of great importance for the COPD-patients well-being to experience social support from those around them, and to have a close relation-ship with their families and friends, in order to experience quality of life. After the completion of a rehabilitation program, it was observed that the physical activ-ity decreased the perception of dyspnoea, despite that the lung function did not improve. By means of increased self-care knowledge, patients will attain balance and a positive attitude to changes in their life style. The supporting role of the nurse is of great importance for the patients when dealing with their disease.