Understanding key components of good practice in the management of moderate and severe COPD is important for nurses working in the community. This article reviews the available evidence, which highlights the importance of smoking cessation, allowing breathless patients time to express themselves, encouraging exercise and timely palliative care. Additionally, evidence suggests that hospital-at-home can provide a safe alternative to hospital care and is the preference of some. However, more research is needed to provide evidence regarding the most effective smoking cessation programmes.