Questions and Answers
What is the primary nursing function in managing a patient with acute tracheobronchitis?
Which treatment is suggested to relieve airway irritation in patients with tracheobronchitis?
In severe cases of acute tracheobronchitis, which procedure might be required?
What should patients with tracheobronchitis be advised regarding antibiotic treatment?
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What risk is associated with copious, purulent secretions in patients with tracheobronchitis?
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What is a common trigger for the development of acute tracheobronchitis?
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What characterizes the sputum produced in acute tracheobronchitis?
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Which of the following organisms is NOT associated with causes of acute tracheobronchitis?
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What symptom might indicate the progression of acute tracheobronchitis?
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In patients with acute tracheobronchitis, cough could lead to which of the following complications?
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What is the role of antibiotics in the management of acute tracheobronchitis?
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Which of the following is a potential cause of acute tracheobronchitis aside from infections?
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Why are antihistamines typically not prescribed for acute tracheobronchitis?
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Study Notes
Acute Tracheobronchitis Overview
- Characterized by inflammation of tracheal and bronchial mucous membranes; often follows upper respiratory tract infections.
- Viral infections lower resistance, leading to potential secondary bacterial infections.
Pathophysiology
- Infected bronchi produce mucopurulent sputum, commonly caused by bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
- Fungal infections, such as those caused by Aspergillus, can also lead to tracheobronchitis.
- A sputum culture is critical for identifying specific pathogens.
- Physical/chemical irritants and air contaminants can exacerbate inflammation.
- Ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis is prevalent in chronically ventilated patients.
Clinical Manifestations
- Initial symptoms include a dry cough and scanty mucoid sputum, potentially leading to sternal soreness.
- Patients may experience fever, chills, night sweats, headache, and malaise.
- As the condition worsens, symptoms may include shortness of breath, inspiratory stridor, expiratory wheeze, and purulent sputum.
- Severe cases can involve blood-streaked secretions due to airway mucosal irritation.
Medical Management
- Antibiotics may be prescribed based on sputum analysis and symptom severity.
- Antihistamines are typically avoided due to potential secretion thickening.
- Increased fluid intake helps thin viscous secretions, reducing airway obstruction risk.
- Procedures like suctioning and bronchoscopy may be employed for persistent secretions.
- In severe instances, endotracheal intubation may be necessary to address acute respiratory failure.
- Symptomatic treatment includes vapor therapy and moist heat application.
Nursing Management
- Most patients manage their condition at home, focusing on bronchial hygiene and increased fluid intake.
- Nurses should encourage effective coughing to clear secretions and advise patients to sit up to facilitate this.
- Emphasis on completing prescribed antibiotic courses for underlying infections is essential.
- Caution patients against overexertion; fatigue management is important to prevent relapse.
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Description
This quiz covers acute tracheobronchitis, focusing on its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. It highlights how upper respiratory infections can lead to this condition and the importance of proper management. Test your knowledge on the pathophysiology and prevention of acute bronchitis!
