Chapter 19 (Respiratory Emergencies) Flashcards
Inspiration
The active process that functions to increase the size of the chest cavity via muscle contraction.
Air is pulled into the lungs via negative pressure.
Expiration
The passive process that functions to decrease the size of the chest cavity via muscle relaxation.
Air is pushed out of the lungs via positive pressure.
Adequate Breathing
Breathing that is sufficient to support life
Inadequate Breathing: Breathing that is not sufficient to support life.
Signs of Adequate Breathing
- No obvious (respiratory) distress
- Ability to speak in full sentences
- Normal skin color
- Normal mental status
- Correct orientation to time/space
Healthy Breath Sounds
“Clear and Equal Bilaterally”
Signs of Inadequate Breathing
- Respiratory Rate Outside of Normal Range (12–20)
- Irregular Respiratory Rhythm
- Diminished/Absent Lung Sounds
- Poor Tidal Volume
Inadequate Breathing in Pediatrics
- Nasal Flaring
- Grunting
- Seesaw Breathing
- Retractions
Problematic Breathing Sounds
- Wheezing
- Gurgling
- Snoring
- Stridor
- Crowing
- Crackles
Wheezing
Indication of Bronchoconstriction
Crackles
Indication of Fluid in Alveoli
Rhonchi
Snoring (or rattling) sounds that are caused by secretions in larger airways
Stridor
High-pitched sounds in the upper airway that indicate partial obstruction of the trachea or larynx.
Common Applications of C-PAP
- Congestive Heart Failure
- Pulmonary Edema
- Drowning
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Respiratory Failure
Side Effects of C-PAP
- Hypotension
- Pneumothorax
- Increased Aspiration Risk
- Drying of Corneas
Pneumothorax = Lung Collapse
Contraindications of C-PAP
- Severe Altered Mental Status
- Hypotension (Shock)
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Upper Gastrointestinal (GI) Bleeding
- Penetrating Chest Trauma
- Lack of Spontaneous Respiratory Rate
