Objective: This study aims to explore the impact of respiratory function training and preventive nursing pathways on the prognosis of patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), providing a scientific basis for clinical nursing. Methods: Eighty-six patients with stable COPD from May 6, 2022, to May 6, 2023, were selected and divided into a novel group and a traditional group, with 43 patients in each group. The novel group received respiratory function training and a preventive nursing pathway, while the traditional group received routine nursing. Observation indicators included lung function indicators (forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio), dyspnea severity, 6-minute walking distance, quality of life (CAT questionnaire score), and the number of acute exacerbations and hospitalizations. SPSS 21.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: The novel group performed significantly better than the traditional group in FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio (P < 0.05). Patients in the novel group had reduced dyspnea severity, increased 6-minute walking distance, decreased quality of life scores, and reduced acute exacerbations and hospitalizations (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Respiratory function training and preventive nursing pathways can significantly improve lung function, dyspnea severity, exercise tolerance, and quality of life of patients with stable COPD, and reduce the number of acute exacerbations and hospitalizations, which has important clinical significance.