Respiratory Disorders: Upper Airway Infections

Questions and Answers

What is Rhinitis characterized by?

Nasal congestion

Sore throat

Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose (correct)

Shortness of breath

Allergic Rhinitis is always seasonal.

False

What is the common treatment for sneezing, pruritus, and rhinorrhea?

Antihistamines

Which of the following is NOT a clinical manifestation of Viral Rhinitis?

Bloating Signup and view all the answers

What should a client do before applying nasal medications?

Blow their nose Signup and view all the answers

What is the acute inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity called?

Viral Rhinitis Signup and view all the answers

____ is a common treatment used to relieve sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion.

Antihistamines Signup and view all the answers

Match the following treatment with their usage:

Antihistamines = Relieve sneezing and rhinorrhea Cromolyn = Inhibits the release of histamine Guaifenesin = Expectorant to relieve mucus Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Upper Airway Infections

Rhinitis

Group of disorders causing inflammation and irritation of nasal mucous membranes.
Can be classified as acute or chronic, and categorized into non-allergic or allergic types.

Allergic Rhinitis

Divided into seasonal rhinitis, associated with airborne particles like dust and pollen.
Seasonal Rhinitis occurs specifically during pollen season.
Personal Rhinitis occurs year-round due to household allergens such as pet dander.

Risk Factors for Rhinitis

Maternal smoking during pregnancy.
Living in areas with high pollution levels.
Higher socioeconomic status can correlate with increased exposure.
Exposure to indoor allergens during childhood.
Early introduction of food or formula in infancy.
Family history of allergies or asthma.

Clinical Manifestations of Rhinitis

Symptoms include:
- Rhinorrhea (runny nose)
- Nasal congestion and pain
- Itchy sensations in the nose, mouth, throat, eyes, and ears.
- Low-grade fever and general malaise.
- Sore throat and headaches.
- Halitosis (bad breath).
- Tearing and watery eyes.

Viral Rhinitis

Characterized by acute inflammation of the nasal mucosa.
Common symptoms include nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and sore throat.
Colds are contagious and can spread two days prior to symptom onset and during the early symptomatic phase.
Rhinoviruses are the primary cause, particularly in early fall and spring.

Medical Management

Treatment Options

Antihistamines:
- Most common treatment, effective for sneezing, pruritus, and rhinorrhea.
Cromolyn (Nasal Crom):
- Inhibits histamine release and other inflammatory chemicals.
Oral Decongestants:
- Used for relieving nasal obstructions.

Nursing Management

Instruct clients on proper administration of nasal medications:
- Blow nose before using nasal sprays.
- Maintain an upright head position during administration.
- Spray into each nostril away from the septum, waiting one minute between doses.
- Ensure nasal medication containers are clean after use.
Encourage adequate fluid intake and rest, while preventing chilling.
Propose warm saline gargles for sore throat relief.
Use Petroleum Jelly to soothe irritated skin around the nostrils.
Consider Guaifenesin (Mucinex) as an expectorant.

Description

This quiz focuses on the medical management of upper airway infections, particularly rhinitis. It covers the correct administration of nasal medications and emphasizes the importance of patient instructions. Test your knowledge on the disorders of the respiratory system and treatment protocols.