Asthma

Question 1

What are the signs and symptoms of asthma?

Answer 1

dyspnoea, chest pain, increase RR, accessory muscle use, SOB decrease SPO2, tripod positioning, diaphoresis, dizziness

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of asthma?

Answer 2

Inflammatory response triggered by antigens
mucous secretions increase occluding airways
swelling of membranes in bronchi
mast cells activates increasing blood flow and WBC movement
alveoli become hyper-inflamed
air gets trapped in alveoli increasing pressure
decrease alveolar perfusion

Question 3

What are the causes of asthma?

Answer 3

thought to be a genetic mutation a flare up can be caused by exercise when it is cold, occupational so when in the workplace can be triggered, or allergy asthma caused by external factors like pollen

Question 4

What are the nursing interventions for asthma?

Answer 4

administer bronchodilators through nebuliser or spacer
sit patient up to maximise air entry
regular vital sign monitoring record and report change
reassure patient and family members to lower anxiety
education patient on medication and dx plan
monitor sputum production volume, consistency, colour

Question 5

What is the rationale for the nursing interventions?

Answer 5

bronchodilators expand the airway to maximise gas exchange and increase O2.
monitor obs to that interventions can be put in place in a timely matter
education patient so that this doesn’t occur again and that their medications are being used properly
ensure that there are no other underlying causes e.g infection