Acute Respiratory Disorders Quiz Game and Flash Cards

Questions and Answers

What is the primary cause of a pneumothorax?

Increased lung volume during exercise

Air or gas in the pleural space (correct)

Oxygen deficit in the bloodstream

Excessive hydration

Which of the following symptoms is associated with a pneumothorax?

Fever and chills

Abdominal pain

Tachycardia and diaphoresis (correct)

Cough and sputum production

What might absent or decreased breath sounds on the affected side indicate?

Pneumothorax (correct)

Asthma attack

Pulmonary edema

Normal respiratory function

Which of the following symptoms would suggest the presence of hypoxia in a patient?

Presence of anxiety Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of anticoagulant therapy in the management of pulmonary embolism?

Prevents further clot formation Signup and view all the answers

Which diagnostic test provides a direct anatomical view of the pulmonary vessels?

Pulmonary arteriogram Signup and view all the answers

What complication might arise from the administration of anticoagulants?

Signs of bleeding such as hemoptysis Signup and view all the answers

Why is monitoring of partial thromboplastin time (PTT) necessary during heparin therapy?

To maintain therapeutic anticoagulation Signup and view all the answers

Which medication would be used for long-term anti-coagulation after a thrombus or embolism?

Coumadin Signup and view all the answers

What is a key indication of respiratory alkalosis in a patient experiencing tachypnea?

Decreased CO2 levels Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the presence of elevated levels of D-dimer in a patient's blood test?

Potential thrombus/embolus formation Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing intervention is critical when monitoring a patient with DVT?

Monitor peripheral pulses in the affected leg Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible sound associated with a penetrating chest injury during inspiration?

Sucking sounds Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following assessments would indicate hypoxia?

Weakness and confusion Signup and view all the answers

What imaging test is primarily used to assess for lung expansion or collapse?

Chest X-ray Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a Heimlich valve in managing a chest tube?

To allow fluid to exit while preventing re-entry Signup and view all the answers

In assessing a patient for pneumothorax, what vital sign change is most likely to occur?

Tachycardia Signup and view all the answers

What nursing diagnosis is appropriate for a patient with ineffective breathing pattern due to pneumothorax?

Impaired gas exchange Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of needle thoracostomy in the management of pneumothorax?

To decompress a tension pneumothorax Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of small cell lung cancer?

It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of lung cancer accounts for approximately 30% of cases?

Squamous cell carcinoma Signup and view all the answers

What is a common clinical manifestation of pulmonary edema?

Tachycardia Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is primarily used to reduce alveolar and systemic edema in pulmonary edema?

Lasix Signup and view all the answers

How does acute pulmonary embolus primarily affect blood flow in the lungs?

Creates a ventilation-perfusion mismatch Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is indicative of severe respiratory distress in pulmonary edema?

Pink, frothy sputum Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes 'atelectasis' in relation to pulmonary embolus?

Collapse of lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is crucial for patients experiencing pulmonary edema?

Frequent assessment of respiratory status Signup and view all the answers

Which factor may lead to non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema?

Rapid intravenous fluid administration Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial interpretation of ABG in pulmonary edema at onset?

Respiratory alkalosis Signup and view all the answers

Which cardiac medication can help reduce anxiety in pulmonary edema patients?

Morphine sulfate Signup and view all the answers

In which positioning is a patient with pulmonary edema most likely to have maximal gas exchange?

Fowler's position Signup and view all the answers

Which clinical manifestation is a sign of moderate to severe pulmonary embolus?

Sudden dyspnea Signup and view all the answers

What are common symptoms associated with central lesions in lung cancer?

Hemoptysis and pleural effusion Signup and view all the answers

What may present as a result of metastasis in lung cancer patients?

Weight loss Signup and view all the answers

Which surgical treatment would not require post-operative chest tube drainage?

Pneumonectomy Signup and view all the answers

Which finding indicates a possible pleural effusion in a lung cancer patient during assessment?

Decreased breath sounds at the base Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a recommended nursing intervention for a lung cancer patient post-surgery?

Encourage deep breathing exercises and coughing Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of medical management for lung cancer patients?

To depend on the type and stage of lung cancer Signup and view all the answers

What can cause clubbing of the fingers in lung cancer patients?

Chronic hypoxia Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT a subjective symptom of lung cancer?

Dyspnea Signup and view all the answers

What is a hallmark sign that indicates possible advanced lung cancer and its effects?

Signs of superior vena cava syndrome Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following techniques can help avoid venous stasis?

Frequent position changes Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct method for applying antiembolism hose?

Ensure the hose fits properly without constricting blood flow Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential dietary consideration for a patient on Coumadin therapy?

Avoid foods rich in vitamin K Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of monitoring ABGs in a patient with impaired gas exchange?

To evaluate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels Signup and view all the answers

What complication should be monitored for in patients receiving anticoagulation therapy?

Bleeding complications Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary causes of ARDS?

Viral or bacterial pneumonia Signup and view all the answers

What might be an indication of hypoxia in a patient?

Cyanosis of the extremities Signup and view all the answers

What does an arterial blood gas indicate when there is an increased PaCO2?

Ventilation failure Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of medical management for ARDS?

Achieve adequate oxygenation Signup and view all the answers

In the treatment of pulmonary edema in ARDS, which medication is commonly used?

Diuretics Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is prioritized to maintain gas exchange in ARDS?

Facilitate optimal ventilation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following respiratory statuses would indicate a worsening condition in an ARDS patient?

Restlessness and confusion Signup and view all the answers

Why is prone positioning significant for ARDS patients?

Improves lung function Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of hypoxemia during ARDS?

Altered mental status Signup and view all the answers

What does a decreased HCO3 indicate in terms of respiratory function?

Metabolic acidosis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common environmental allergen that can trigger asthma?

Animal dander Signup and view all the answers

What is a key physical sign of bronchiectasis in a patient?

Cyanosis Signup and view all the answers

Which diagnostic test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing bronchiectasis?

High-resolution CT scan Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of bronchiectasis observed during morning episodes?

Paroxysmal coughing Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the late signs of bronchiectasis that healthcare providers should monitor for?

Clubbing of fingers Signup and view all the answers

Why are corticosteroids prescribed mainly during acute exacerbations in patients with respiratory diseases?

Long-term use can lead to significant side effects Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant aspect of patient teaching for someone with emphysema regarding their diet?

Food should be divided into five or six small meals Signup and view all the answers

Which medication type is often administered to alleviate anxiety in patients experiencing respiratory distress?

Anti-anxiety agents Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of high flow oxygen on patients with COPD?

It can cause respiratory depression Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is most important for infection control in patients with COPD?

Regular vaccinations against influenza and pneumococcus Signup and view all the answers

What should patients with emphysema be taught about fluid consumption?

Drink fluids between meals to avoid gastric distention Signup and view all the answers

How often should patients with COPD receive the flu vaccine?

Once every year Signup and view all the answers

Which agent is critical for diuresis in certain respiratory patients?

A diuretic Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential component of care management for patients with COPD?

Elevating the head of the bed Signup and view all the answers

In the context of respiratory diseases, what is a common cause of chronic bronchitis?

Chronic smoking Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is most indicative of an acute asthma attack?

Diaphoresis and tachycardia Signup and view all the answers

What tool can help a patient monitor the severity of asthma symptoms?

Peak flow meter Signup and view all the answers

Which medication should not be used as the sole therapy for persistent asthma?

Leukotriene inhibitors Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored during an acute asthma attack?

Oxygen saturation levels Signup and view all the answers

What condition is characterized by severe and unrelenting asthma symptoms unresponsive to medication?

Status asthmaticus Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following indicates that a patient may be experiencing respiratory distress?

Use of accessory muscles Signup and view all the answers

What is a common side effect associated with medications used to manage asthma?

Tachycardia Signup and view all the answers

What is the main pathophysiological change in emphysema?

Destruction of alveolar walls Signup and view all the answers

What is a common clinical manifestation of emphysema?

Severe exertional dyspnea Signup and view all the answers

What is the normal range of peak flow for most individuals?

80%-100% of expected function Signup and view all the answers

What would a chest x-ray typically reveal in a patient with emphysema?

Hyperinflation of the lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary nursing intervention to manage asthma effectively?

Educate the patient about trigger avoidance Signup and view all the answers

What is a likely consequence of untreated chronic bronchitis?

Cor pulmonale Signup and view all the answers

A PaCO2 value of 22-26 mmHg indicates what condition?

Respiratory alkalosis Signup and view all the answers

What is a common objective assessment finding in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Peripheral cyanosis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ABG results indicates respiratory acidosis?

pH 7.35, Paco2 50 mm Hg Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected effect of the albuterol and ipratropium nebulizer treatment?

Decrease wheezing and improve airflow Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with chronic bronchitis and is most pronounced in the morning?

Productive cough Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential late clinical manifestation of chronic bronchitis?

Polycythemia Signup and view all the answers

Which diagnostic test can help indicate the presence of hypoxia in chronic bronchitis patients?

ABG Signup and view all the answers

Which medication class is commonly used to facilitate airway dilation in chronic bronchitis management?

Beta-adrenergic agonists Signup and view all the answers

Which objective assessment finding signifies increased respiratory effort in chronic bronchitis patients?

Tachypnea Signup and view all the answers

What nutritional considerations are important for patients with chronic bronchitis?

High calorie, high protein diet Signup and view all the answers

In assessing patients with chronic bronchitis, which vital sign should be closely observed for sudden changes?

Respiratory rate Signup and view all the answers

Which surgical procedures require chest tubes post-operatively?

Lobectomy Signup and view all the answers

What type of fluid accumulation is characteristic of pulmonary edema?

Serous fluid in interstitial lung tissue Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is primarily used to reduce alveolar and systemic edema in pulmonary edema?

Lasix Signup and view all the answers

What common medication might be administered alongside oxygen therapy in pulmonary edema management?

Lasix Signup and view all the answers

What clinical manifestation is associated with central lesions in lung cancer?

Hemoptysis Signup and view all the answers

Which diagnostic test is more precise for identifying the location and size of a lung tumor?

CT scan Signup and view all the answers

Which surgical procedure involves the removal of an entire lung?

Pneumonectomy Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected outcome for patients with ineffective airway clearance due to lung cancer surgery?

Patient will maintain patent airway Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is appropriate for improving the quality of life for lung cancer patients?

Provide high calorie supplements Signup and view all the answers

In nursing diagnoses for lung cancer, which outcome is associated with the diagnosis of fear?

Patient will verbalize fears and exhibit adequate coping mechanisms Signup and view all the answers

What clinical manifestation is commonly associated with pulmonary embolism?

Sudden, sharp chest pain that worsens on inspiration Signup and view all the answers

What is a common diagnostic test used to confirm the presence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Venous ultrasound Signup and view all the answers

What medication is primarily used for long-term anticoagulation following a thrombus or embolism?

Warfarin Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of administering anticoagulant therapy in pulmonary embolism management?

To prevent further clot formation Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing intervention can help assess the severity of a patient's hypoxemia?

Checking capillary refill times Signup and view all the answers

What diagnostic test is commonly used to visualize pulmonary blood flow and ventilation?

V/Q scan Signup and view all the answers

What condition is indicated by hypoxia, elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, and atelectasis?

Pulmonary embolism Signup and view all the answers

Which medication may be administered to dissolve a pulmonary embolism?

Thrombolytics Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored to prevent complications during heparin therapy?

Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) Signup and view all the answers

In emergency situations, what procedure may be required to remove a large thrombus from the pulmonary artery?

Embolectomy Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following techniques is NOT recommended to avoid venous stasis?

Crossing legs Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of Coumadin therapy that patients must understand?

Vitamin K-rich foods may alter lab values Signup and view all the answers

What phase of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by uncontrolled inflammation?

Acute Phase Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom should be monitored as a sign of potential bleeding complications during anticoagulation therapy?

Occult blood in stool or urine Signup and view all the answers

In which phase of ARDS does pulmonary edema resolve and a fibrin matrix form?

Proliferative Phase Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary risk associated with untreated pulmonary embolism?

30% mortality rate Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is considered an antidote for heparin?

Protamine sulfate Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to assist a patient with impaired gas exchange related to pulmonary issues?

Elevate head of the bed to enhance ventilation Signup and view all the answers

What clinical manifestation may indicate a pneumothorax?

Sharp, pleuritic pain with dyspnea Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following assessment findings is consistent with a tension pneumothorax?

Cyanosis and hypotension Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of chest tube insertion in the management of pneumothorax?

To increase lung expansion and promote fluid drainage Signup and view all the answers

What immediate nursing intervention should be prioritized for a patient presenting with a suspected tension pneumothorax?

Performing needle thoracostomy Signup and view all the answers

What psychological response might a patient experience related to the feeling of air hunger with a pneumothorax?

Anxiety Signup and view all the answers

What finding on an ABG test is expected in a patient with a pneumothorax?

Decreased pH and decreased PaO2 Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Enabling Learning Objectives

Explain the etiology of acute respiratory disorders: pneumothorax, lung cancer, pulmonary edema, pulmonary embolus, ARDS, and acute respiratory failure.
Instruction includes handouts, scenarios, and discussion in a classroom environment.

Pneumothorax

Accumulation of air or gas in pleural space leads to lung collapse.
Causes include:
- Chest trauma (laceration, puncture, fractured ribs)
- Ruptured bleb due to emphysema
- Spontaneous events
Disruption of normal negative pressure prevents lung inflation.
Tension pneumothorax is life-threatening and requires immediate intervention.
Clinical signs:
- Absent/decreased breath sounds
- Sharp pleuritic pain and dyspnea
- Tachycardia, tachypnea, and hypotension
Diagnostic tests: chest x-ray shows lung collapse and mediastinal shift, ABG indicates hypoxemia and acidosis.
Medical management includes chest tube insertion, Heimlich valve usage, and needle thoracostomy for tension pneumothorax.
Nursing interventions focus on maintaining airway patency, monitoring vital signs, and patient education about avoiding irritants and recognizing symptoms.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, accounting for 27% of cancer fatalities.
Primary tumors often arise from colon or kidney metastasis; smoking is a major contributing factor (87% of cases).
Clinical manifestations can be peripheral (asymptomatic until later stages) or central (hemoptysis, dyspnea).
Diagnostic tests include chest x-ray, CT scans, and bronchoscopy with biopsy.
Treatment varies by type and stage, ranging from surgical interventions (lobectomy, pneumonectomy) to chemotherapy and radiation.
Prognosis is poor, with only 15.9% of patients surviving five years or longer.

Pulmonary Edema

Defined as fluid accumulation in lung interstitium and alveoli, primarily due to severe left ventricular failure.
Clinical signs: dyspnea, tachypnea, pink frothy sputum, hypoxia, and cyanosis.
Diagnostic tests show CXR results indicating alveolar edema and pleural effusion; ABG assesses oxygenation status.
Medical management includes oxygen therapy and medications like Lasix and morphine to reduce pulmonary congestion.
Nursing care emphasizes monitoring respiratory status, ensuring optimal positioning, and educating patients about fluid restrictions and breathing techniques.

Pulmonary Embolus

Occurs when a foreign substance, such as a blood clot, enters the pulmonary artery, obstructing blood flow.
Risk factors include prior thrombophlebitis, recent surgeries or pregnancy, and long-term contraceptive use.
Clinical manifestations are sudden chest pain, unexplained dyspnea, hemoptysis, and hypotension.
Obstruction leads to ventilation-perfusion mismatch, regional bronchoconstriction, and pulmonary edema.
Assessment involves determining the severity of symptoms and identifying risk factors for thrombus formation.

Summary

Comprehensive understanding of the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tests, medical management, and nursing interventions is essential for effective care of patients with acute respiratory disorders.### Pleuritic Chest Pain and Cough Assessment
Pleuritic chest pain often indicates conditions affecting the pleura, leading to sharp, localized pain during respiration.
The nature of a patient's cough can provide insight into respiratory issues; it should be evaluated for type and frequency.
Observe for signs of tachypnea (rapid breathing), tachycardia (increased heart rate), and symptoms of hypotension (low blood pressure).
Auscultation of the chest may reveal crackles or decreased breath sounds, indicative of underlying pulmonary issues.
The presence of a pleural friction rub suggests irritation of the pleura, commonly associated with pneumonia or other pleural conditions.
Anxiety in patients can correlate with sensations of air hunger, often stemming from hypoxia.

Diagnostic Tests for Pulmonary Issues

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) tests may reveal hypoxia; respiratory alkalosis may occur due to tachypnea, eventually leading to respiratory acidosis.
Chest X-ray remains normal initially, may show small infiltrates and enlarged pulmonary artery after 24 hours due to atelectasis.
CT angiogram has become the preferred method for diagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE).
Ventilation-Perfusion (V/Q) scan can visualize blood flow and ventilation in the lungs using radiopaque isotopes.
Pulmonary arteriogram is the gold standard for detecting PE, providing anatomical views of pulmonary vessels.
D-dimer levels are elevated in the presence of a thrombus or embolus, indicating clot degradation.
Venous ultrasound is effective for confirming or excluding deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Medical Management of PE

Anticoagulant therapy such as Heparin (monitored via PTT) prevents further clot formation and allows breakdown of existing clots.
Low molecular weight heparin (e.g., Lovenox) provides similar benefits without the need for lab monitoring.
Coumadin is used for long-term anticoagulation, requiring regular INR monitoring; vitamin K is the antidote.
Thrombolytics may be administered to dissolve pulmonary emboli.
Filter devices can be placed in the inferior vena cava to block emboli from reaching pulmonary arteries without preventing DVT.
Embolectomy may be necessary for large thrombus removal, requiring urgent intervention.

Nursing Interventions for PE

Assess sensorium and respiratory status, including routine monitoring of vital signs and oxygen saturation.
Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees to enhance ventilation and administer oxygen as prescribed.
Document capillary refill and peripheral pulses frequently to gauge cardiac output.
For DVT treatment, maintain bed rest and utilize TED hose.
Monitor for bleeding signs associated with anticoagulation therapy, including epistaxis and hemoptysis.
Educate patients on avoiding venous stasis through position changes, loose clothing, and regular activity.

Prognosis and Learning Points

Untreated PE has a mortality rate of 30%; timely diagnosis and intervention can reduce mortality to 2-8%.
Key antidotes for anticoagulants include Protamine sulfate for heparin and vitamin K for Coumadin.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) Overview

ARDS, also known as non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema, is a severe syndrome characterized by hypoxemia and reduced lung compliance.
It progresses through three phases: acute (inflammation), proliferative (resolution of edema), and fibrotic (severe lung damage).
Common causes include pneumonia, trauma, aspiration, and shock, with sepsis being a primary precursor.
Pathophysiological changes lead to increased permeability of the alveolar capillary membrane, resulting in pulmonary edema and gas exchange impairment.

Clinical Manifestations of ARDS

Symptoms usually appear within 12-24 hours post-injury, with respiratory distress and altered breath sounds within days.
Patients may exhibit signs of altered sensorium due to hypoxemia and increased CO2 retention.
Assessment includes monitoring for dyspnea, altered level of consciousness, and auscultation for abnormal lung sounds.

Medical Management of ARDS

Supportive treatment focuses on maintaining oxygenation and addressing the underlying cause of the syndrome.
Mechanical ventilation may be necessary for severe cases, utilizing PEEP to enhance gas exchange.
Diuretics can help manage pulmonary edema, and morphine can provide sedation and decrease respiratory effort.

Nursing Interventions for ARDS

Continuous monitoring of respiratory status, lung sounds, and vital signs is essential.
Positioning patients optimally (e.g., prone) can improve ventilation and reduce mortality.
Interventions include providing oxygen, assessing for changes, and preparing for potential mechanical ventilation.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Overview

Emphysema primarily affects individuals in their 40s and 50s, characterized by the destruction of alveolar structures and reduced elasticity.
Leading causes include cigarette smoking and genetic factors like alpha-1 antitrypsin (ATT) deficiency.
Patients often experience exertional dyspnea, weight loss, and may require supplemental oxygen in advanced stages.

Assessment and Diagnosis in COPD

Key assessment components include history of symptoms, family history of respiratory disease, and objective measurements of vitals (e.g., tachycardia, cyanosis).
Pulmonary function tests can help determine disease severity by measuring lung capacity and residual volume.### Emphysema Overview
Characterized by volume retention in lungs at end expiration and increased lung compliance.
Airway resistance rises due to bronchiolar narrowing.

Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis

Decreased partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and increased partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2).
pH levels can be low-normal, elevated, or decreased, commonly indicating respiratory acidosis.
Bicarbonate (HCO3) levels are increased.

Diagnostic Imaging

Chest x-ray shows lung hyperinflation, widened intercostal spaces, and a flattened diaphragm.
Notable increase in anterior-posterior (AP) diameter, resembling a barrel chest.

Laboratory Tests

Alpha1-antitrypsin assay may indicate enzyme deficiency linked to emphysema, especially in nonsmokers.
Complete blood count reveals elevated erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, suggesting secondary polycythemia due to chronic hypoxia.

Medical Management

Long-term strategies include home oxygen therapy and chest physiotherapy.
Acute exacerbations may necessitate mechanical ventilation.
Medications:
- Bronchodilators like Albuterol (short-acting) and Salmeterol (long-acting) facilitate bronchiolar dilation.
- Anticholinergics such as ipratropium (Atrovent) reduce bronchospasm.
- Antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent pulmonary infections.
- Corticosteroids help reduce pulmonary inflammation but are usually limited to acute situations.
- Diuretics may aid in fluid management.
- Oxygen therapy is critical for enhancing oxygen saturation.
- Anti-anxiety medications can help manage anxiety but require monitoring for respiratory depression.

Nursing Interventions

Focus on alleviating anxiety and maximizing air exchange.
Oxygenation Protocols:
- Elevate head of the bed for easier breathing.
- Administer low-flow oxygen (1-2 L) through a nasal cannula to prevent respiratory drive depression.
- Nutrition advice emphasizes higher protein and caloric intake, divided into small daily meals.
- Educate on smoking cessation to significantly slow disease progress.

Infection Control

Annual flu vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccinations every five years are recommended.
Instruct patients to avoid contact with those exhibiting respiratory infections.

Prognosis

Emphysema generally considered irreversible.
COPD ranks as the third leading cause of death in the U.S., affecting 16 million and resulting in approximately 120,000 deaths annually.

Nursing Diagnoses for Emphysema

Ineffective airway clearance:
- Interventions aim to mobilize secretions and improve airway patency.
Activity intolerance:
- Focus on balancing activity with rest to accommodate respiratory limitations.

Chronic Bronchitis Overview

Defined as a recurrent chronic productive cough lasting a minimum of three months for at least two years.
Common causes include smoking, irritants, and lung infections.

Pathophysiology

Impaired ciliary function and mucous gland hyperplasia lead to excessive mucous production.
Resulting chronic inflammation can cause airway obstruction and increased resistance.

Clinical Manifestations

Persistent productive cough, especially in the morning, dyspnea, and accessory muscle use.
Cyanosis and cor pulmonale may develop in advanced stages.

Assessment Techniques

Gather comprehensive smoking history and symptom details.
Monitor vital signs for signs of respiratory distress, including wheezing.

Diagnostic Tests

CBC often shows polycythemia and elevated white blood cells (WBCs).
ABGs may indicate respiratory acidosis, while PFTs indicate increased airway resistance.

Medical Management

Focus on symptomatic relief and optimal airflow.
Common medications include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, mucolytics, and antibiotics.

Nursing Interventions

Promote secretion management, provide frequent rest, and maintain hydration.
Ensure low-flow oxygen therapy and proper nutrition.

Prognosis

Chronically irreversible condition contributing to significant morbidity and mortality.

Asthma Overview

Asthma is characterized by episodic airway obstruction due to increased bronchial reactivity.
Classified into extrinsic (allergy-induced) and intrinsic (triggered by internal factors).

Clinical Manifestations

Mild symptoms include dyspnea and wheezing; severe attacks can cause respiratory distress and status asthmaticus.

Assessment Protocols

Collect data on medication use, triggers, and quality of life.
Monitor for signs of severe distress, such as hypoxia and cyanosis.

Diagnostic Tests

ABGs and PFTs evaluate oxygenation status.
CBC may reveal eosinophilia indicating an allergic response.

Medical Management

Two therapy categories: maintenance (preventive) and rescue (acute relief).
Inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators are vital in both management types.

Nursing Interventions

Encourage avoidance of allergens and education on medication use.
Monitor for symptom severity, especially during exercise or exposure to triggers.

Bronchiectasis Overview

Symptoms often arise following respiratory infections, characterized by morning coughing and foul-smelling sputum.

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Description

This quiz aims to explore the etiology of various acute respiratory disorders, including pneumothorax, lung cancer, pulmonary edema, and more. Students will engage with handouts and scenarios to deepen their understanding in a classroom setting. The goal is to ensure comprehension of these critical medical conditions.