Care of Patients with Infectious Respiratory Problems Flashcards
Rhinitis:
Inflammation of nasal mucosa
“Hay fever” or “allergies”
Manifestations- allergic rhinitis
Headache
Nasal irritation and congestion
Sneezing and rhinorrhea
Manifestations – viral / bacterial rhinitis
Same as allergic rhinitis
Also systemic – sore/ dry throat, low-grade fever, malaise
Interventions of Rhinitis
Antihistamines, leukotriene inhibitors, mast cell stabilizers
Decongestants
Antipyretics
Antibiotics
Supportive therapy
Complementary and alternative therapy – vitamin C, zinc
Sinusitis:
Inflammation of sinus mucous membranes
Usually caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Diplococcus, Bacteroides
Manifestations of Sinusitis:
Pain Purulent nasal drainage Fever Erythema Swelling Fatigue Dental pain Ear pressure
Nonsurgical management of Sinusitis:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics Analgesics (pain and fever) Decongestants Steam humidification Hot/wet packs over sinus area Nasal saline irrigations Increased fluids
Pharyngitis:
Sore throat is common inflammation of pharyngeal mucous membranes
Odynophagia, dysphagia, fever, hyperemia
Viral versus Bacterial
Strep throat can lead to serious medical complications!
Screen with Rapid Antigen Test (RAT)
Results in 15 minutes
-Epiglottitis is rare complication
Tonsillitis :
Inflammation/infection of tonsils and lymphatic tissues
Contagious airborne infection, usually bacterial
Antibiotics for 7-10 days
Surgical intervention
Peritonsillar Abscess (PTA)
-Complication of acute tonsillitis
-Manifestations:
Pus causing one-sided swelling with deviation of the uvula
Trismus and difficulty breathing
Bad breath, swollen lymph nodes
Peritonsillar Abscess (PTA): Treatment
Percutaneous needle aspiration of abscess
Antibiotics
Laryngitis
Inflammation of mucous membranes lining the larynx; possible edema of vocal cords
Signs & symptoms of Laryngitis:
Acute hoarseness, dry cough, difficulty swallowing, temporary voice loss (aphonia)
Laryngitis Treatment focused on relief and prevention:
Voice rest, steam inhalation, increased fluid intake, throat lozenges
Reduce use of tobacco and alcohol
Influenza
Highly contagious acute viral respiratory infection
Influenza Signs& Symptoms
Severe headache, muscle ache, fever, chills, fatigue, weakness, anorexia