Key points
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There is a sound evidence base showing the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms and health-related quality of life.
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Pulmonary rehabilitation may be carried out on an in- or outpatient basis, or in the patient’s home – the outcome depends on the content of the programme and the quality of the team delivering it, rather than on the setting.
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Pulmonary rehabilitation is effective in patients with COPD after acute exacerbations as well as in the stable state.