APPLYING BETTY NEUMAN SYSTEMS MODEL IN THE MANAGEMENT OF A PATIENT WITH CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD)

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airflow limitation that significantly affects physical functioning, psychological well-being, and quality of life. Recurrent acute exacerbations are among the leading causes of hospitalization, disability, and mortality in individuals living with COPD. Effective management requires a comprehensive nursing approach that addresses physiological, psychological, sociocultural, developmental, and environmental factors influencing patient outcomes. Betty Neuman's Systems Model provides a holistic framework for understanding patients as open systems continuously interacting with internal and external stressors. This case report demonstrates the application of Betty Neuman's Systems Model in managing a patient admitted with an acute exacerbation of COPD. The patient experienced worsening respiratory symptoms due to multiple stressors, including respiratory infection, previous smoking history, air pollution exposure, poor medication adherence, anxiety, and financial constraints. Comprehensive nursing assessment identified intrapersonal, interpersonal, and extra personal stressors that disrupted the patient's normal line of defence. Nursing interventions were planned according to Neuman's primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies to restore system stability, reduce stressor impact, and promote recovery. Following implementation of individualized nursing care, the patient demonstrated improvement in respiratory status, treatment adherence, symptom management, and confidence in self-care. This case highlights the value of integrating Betty Neuman's Systems Model into clinical nursing practice to provide holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered care for individuals with chronic respiratory diseases.