Transitions and touchpoints in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) face a poor prognosis and endure intrusive symptoms that impair quality of life. Many patients with IPF will require supplemental oxygen (O(2)) at some point in the course of their illness, and although it can improve blood oxygen and symptoms, O(2) creates physical and emotional challenges for patients and their loved ones. Four events in the course of IPF—the first occurs at the time of diagnosis and the other three are related to O(2)—herald periods of transition for patients and their caregivers and mark touchpoints when they need extra care and support from practitioners.