Chapter 26: Concepts of Care for Patients With Noninfectious Upper Respiratory Problems Flashcards
Exam 2 (Dr. Lyons)
nosebleed
epistaxis
oxygen transport to the cells and carbon dioxide transport away from cells through ventilations and diffusion
gas exchange
lower than normal respiratory rate and depth insufficient for gas exchange
hypopnea
thickly crusted oral and nasopharyngeal secretions that can cause an upper airway obstruction aka: mucoid impaction
inspissated secretions
an adult who has had a laryngectomy
laryngectomee
a breathing disruption during sleep that lasts at least 10 sec and occurs a minimum of five times in an hour
obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
a formal and definitive overnight sleep study with direct observation of the patient while he or she wears a variety of monitoring equipment to evaluate depth of sleep, type of sleep, respiratory effort, oxygen saturation, carbon dioxide exhalation, and muscle movement
polysomnography
surgical reconstruction of the nose
rhinoplasty
The upper respiratory system includes….
nose, sinuses,oropharynx, larynx, and trachea
What kind of issues disrupt airflow and gas exchange for the upper respiratory system?
any issue that blocks any of these passages (nose, sinuses, oropharynx, larynx, and trachea)
What is the primary nursing focus for patients with upper respiratory tract disorders?
is to support gas exchange by maintaining a clear and open airway
How does an upper airway obstruction occur?
when airflow through the nose, mouth, pharynx, or larynx is blocked
Why is early detection crucial when it comes to gas exchange impairment?
can prevent serious complications such as respiratory arrest and death; it can be life-threatening
Common causes of upper airway obstruction can encompass a variety of conditions and incidents, such as what?
tongue swelling resulting from surgery, trauma, or allergic reactions such as angioedema
How do tongue blockages occur?
due to loss of the gag reflex, diminished muscle tone, unconsciousness, or coma
How does laryngeal swelling often occur?
inhalation of smoke, toxins, inflammation, allergic reactions, or anaphylaxis
Some other causes of obstructions
peritonsillar and pharyngeal abscesses, head and neck cancers, and thick secretions
Conditions that may contribute to obstructions
stroke and cerebral edema; trauma or burns to the face, trachea, or larynx; foreign-body aspiration
What can critically impact airway patency and require prompt attention?
Obstructions
A preventable cause of airway obstruction
thickly crusted oral and nasopharyngeal secretions
Who is most at risk for this preventable asphyxiation risk (thickly crusted oral and nasopharyngeal secretions)?
those with altered mental status or consciousness, dehydrated, communication difficulties, ineffective coughing, or who are prone to aspiration
What can be done to prevent this issue (thickly crusted oral and nasopharyngeal secretions)?
provide regular oral care
Airway obstruction demands immediate attention to prevent what?
a partial obstruction from escalating to a complete blockage
What are the symptoms of a partial obstruction?
- sweating
- rapid heartbeat
- anxiety
- elevated blood pressure
What are some diagnostic tools to diagnose a partial obstruction?
- chest or neck xray
- laryngoscopy
- CT scans
What should you monitor for in a patient with a partial obstruction?
signs of hypoxia, hypercarbia, restlessness, increasing anxiety, sternal retractions,”seesaw” chest movements, abnormal breathing, or a sense of impending doom due to difficulty breathing
What equipment should be used for monitoring in patients with partial obstructions?
pulse ox, end-tidal carbon dioxide for continuous gas exchange monitoring
What should be reguarly be check for in patients with partial obstructions?
stridor, cyanosis, changes in the patient’s level of consciousness
To guide appropriate intervention of a airway obstruction what should be determined?
the cause
If the obstruction is due to the tongue falling back or excessive secretions, what are some interventions?
extend the patient’s head and neck and insert a nasal or oral airway; suction to remove any obstructing secretions
What are some interventions for obstructions caused by a foreign body that cannot be manually cleared from the oral cavity?
perform abdominal thrusts
What interventions would you do for an unconscious patient with a known obstruction and palpable pulse?
abdominal thrusts are used instead of chest compressions
What interventions would you do for an unconscious patient with no obstruction is evident?
chest compressions are preferred due to the higher likelihood of cardiac issues over airway obstruction in these cases
What emergency procedures may be necessary to restore gas exchange if the obstruction cannot be quickly resolved?
cricothyroidotomy or a tracheotomy
When an obstruction is not due to a foreign object what intervention may be required?
endotracheal intubation
What can help identify the obstruction’s cause or assist in removing foreign bodies?
laryngoscopy
An emergency procedure that involves making an incision through the cricothyroid membrane between the thyroid and cricoid cartilage?
cricothyroidotomy
What can be used to insert through the incision to keep the airway open until a tracheotomy is performed?
any hollow tube, preferably a tracheostomy tube (this method is used when no other means can secure the airway)
An emergency technique involving inserting a ____ or a very small endotracheal tube directly into the cricoid space to allow airflow.
14-gauge needle
Is done by inserting a tube into the trachea via the nose or mouth
endotracheal intubation
What procedure is done when pharyngeal or laryngeal edema is anticipated to prevent complications from severe swelling?
endotracheal intubation
A surgical procedure typically performed in the operating room with local or general anesthesia, though it can be done at the bedside.
tracheotomy
The use of a local anesthesia for a tracheotomy is when ?
there is a risk of losing the airway during the anesthesia induction
Tracheotomys are reserved for cases where what is not feasible?
intubation with an endotracheal tube
What emergency procedure can be preformed in 2 minutes?
tracheotomy
When might a patient on long-term mechanical ventilation for upper airway obstruction or respiratory failure need a tracheotomy?
after 7 days or more days of continuous endotracheal intubation to prevent laryngeal injury and preserve tissue integrity
What condition can arise from various pathological mechanisms including issues with central nervous system control of ventilation, inadequate circulaions and oxygenation, and airway obstruction?
sleep apnea
is characterized by disruptions in breathing during sleep that last for at least 10 seconds and occurs at least 5 times per hour.
obstructive sleep apnea
:shallow breathing with insufficient airflow for effective gas exchange
hypopnea
Obstructive sleep apnea typically involves what?
hypopnea
Etiology of obstructive sleep apnea
during sleep, the relaxation of head and neck muscles allows the tongue, soft palate, and other throat structures to collapse and obstructthe upper airway, while neural control of chest movement remains unaffected; this obstruction impairs gas exchange, increasing carbon dioxide levels and decreasing blood pH; these changes stimulate neural centers, causing the sleeper to awaken after 10 seconds or more of apnea, correct the obstruction and resume breathing; the cycle can repeat as frequently as every 5 minutes, disrupting sleep and preventing the deep sleep necessary for optimal physiological restoration
Can cause arterial blood oxygen saturation to drop significantly below 80%
apnea episodes
Individuals with what condition often experience chronic daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, and irritability
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
What are some long-term consequences of chronic OSA?
a higher risk of hypertension, stroke, cognitive impairments, weight gain, diabetes, and cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases
Disruptions in hormonal energy balance from OSA can lead to what that can adversely impact the patient’s health?
severe metabolic problems
What is the primary cause of OSA?
a blockage of the upper airway by the soft palate or tongue
What some contributing factors (etiology and genetic risk) of OSA?
obesity, a large uvula, a short neck, smoking, enlarged tonsils or adenoids and swelling in the oropharyngeal area
Many patients with what are unaware of their condition?
sleep apnea
What disorder should be expected in adults who experience persistent daytime sleepiness or report feeling tired upon waking, especially if they also snore heavily?
sleep apnea
Sample questions to ask a patient who is at risk for sleep apnea:
- Inquire about daytime drowsiness or episodes of falling asleep during activities such as using a computer, reading, or driving
- ask if the patient has ever been awakened by their own snoring and whether family members have noticed loud snoring
- Inquire about the frequency of nightmares, which can be associated with OSA
- Inquire if family members have observed disturbed breathing patterns during sleep
- Ask of the patient has tried to enhance sleep with OTC sleep aids or increased alcohol consumption
In sever cases of sleep apnea what are some things you should ask your patient in their assessment?
Have you fallen asleep while eating, or any time they sit down?
What is a typical breathing pattern for a patient with sleep apnea?
involves increasingly spaced breaths followed by periods of no breathing, which are then followed by gasping and snorrting as the patient partially awakens to correct the obstruction
What condition does a patient with OSA develop?
GERD
If a patient with OSA frequently experiences “heartburn”, regurgitation, or a burning, choking sensation with coughing upon waking what might they have developed?
GERD
What should be assessed in patient at risk for OSA?
- overall appearance including height and weight (many adult with OSA are overweight)
- examine the jaw, chin, and neck (as OSA is often associated with retracted lower jaw, small chin and a short neck)
- inspect the oral cavity and throat for the size and shape of the pharynx, uvula, and tongue
- check for swelling or enlargement of these structures: tonsils, adenoids, pillars, and soft palate
Chronic OSA is linked to what issues which may not respond well to standard treatments?
cardiovascular issues, particularly hypertension
What should you measure in OSA patients suspected of cardiovascular issues?
blood pressure, heart rate, and rhythm, and use pulse oximetry
If a patient with OSA is being treated for hypertension what should be reviewed?
the medication and dosages used
If hypertension is detected but not previously managed in a patient with OSA, what should you do during their assessment/ office visit?
recheck the blood pressure later in the examination and document any persistent elevations
What are common behaviors in individuals with chronic OSA?
personality changes, depression, general loss of interest in social activities
Who can provide valuable insight into the psychosocial changes of the patient who has OSA?
family members
What are some more questions you can ask your OSA patient during their psychosocial assessment?
Have you had difficulty with memory, concentration, perceived energy levels and abioity to stay focused on tasks while working or studying?
A questionnaire that evaluates perceived sleep quality and daytime sleepiness?
STOP-Bang Questionnaire
If the results of the STOP-Bang questionnaire suggest the presence of OSA, what is the next step a patient may be recommended to followup with?
complete a less invasive home sleep study
What is a home sleep study?
the patient sleeps in their own bed while their respiratory rate, heart rate, chest movement, eye movements, and other muscle activity are electronically monitored.
If the at-home study indicates a sleep apnea issue, the patient is referred to have a what?
a more comprehensive overnight sleep study, known as polysomnography
During what study does the patient get monitored throughout the entire sleep period with a range of equipment to assess sleep depth and type, respiratory effort, oxygen saturation, carbon dioxide levels, and muscle activity?
polysomnography
What types of monitoring techniques are used in a polysomnography test?
EEG, ECG, pulse oximetry, and EMG
The main concern for the patient with moderate-to-severe OSA is what?
poor gas exchange and hypoxia caused by disrupted sleep patterns
Management of OSA depends on the severity of the condition and what?
the patient’s willingness to participate in treatment
What is the main goal in the treatment of OSA?
to reduce airway obstruction and enhance both the depth and duration of restorative sleep
What are some ways to correct OSA and improve gas exchange for mild cases?
changing sleep positions; losing weight
Devices that prevent tongue subluxation may reduce what?
obstruction
How can an oral appliance improve airflow for someone with OSA?
by holding the lower jaw forward
Some devices prevent the tongue from slipping back during sleep, what is a couple drawbacks to these devices?
they may be bulky and uncomfortable; increase risk of oral mucosal damage
CPAP
continuous positive airway pressure
What is the most common nonsurgical therapy treatment for OSA?
CPAP
How does a CPAP work?
it keeps the upper airway open by delivering constant pressure through a nasal-oral facemask, nasal mask, or nasal pillow
Why is it necessary to create a proper seal with a CPAP?
a snug fit for effective treatment
What led to poor adherence with older CPAP machines?
they were noisy and less comfortable
What is different about newer CPAP machines that the old ones?
they are quieter, humidify the air, and often use smaller, more comfortable masks
What can the newer CPAP machines monitor/ do that the older ones could not?
patient data and send the information to the patient’s smartphone or healthcare provider to track treatment effectiveness
What should the patient’s be reminded regarding the usage of CPAP machines?
it is crucial to use it daily for at least 6 hrs to reduce OSA-related health risks
Many patients adjust well over time and report better sleep and improved well-being which does what?
increases adherence although some believe the equipment to be too intrusive
What is vital for therapy success?
patient education
What do sleep apnea clinics provide to patients to help ease concerns and promote adherence?
extensive educational resources
Does medication have any effect on OSA?
has limited effectiveness
What can worsen symptoms of OSA?
sedatives
What do stimulants for daytime wakefulness do to patient’s with OSA?
often causes side effects without improving restorative sleep
What may be considered for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP or for whom it is ineffective?
surgery
Before surgery, what is done to identify the problem causing OSA?
thorough endoscopic exam
Surgical options may what for OSA patients?
vary depending on cause of OSA
Who can benefit from a stimulator implant?
patients with mild-to-moderate OSA
Stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to keep the airway open during sleep
a stimulator implant
* (hypoglossal nerve) 12th cranial nerve, and it controls the muscles that move the tongue
What are some same-day surgical procedures for patients with a mild case of obstructive sleep apnea?
a stimulator implant, tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, uvulectomy, or septum repair
What are more complex surgeries for patients with obstructive sleep apnea?
uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPP); modified uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (modUPP)
Most surgical procedures are done same-day unless what?
there is a risk of bleeding or significant airway swelling
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPP) and modified uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (modUPP) are more complex surgeries that involve what?
reconstructing the posterior oropharynx and typically requires a hospital stay of 2 or more days, with a recovery period of 3 to 6 wks
Post-surgery care from a UPP or modUPP focuses on what?
maintaining a patent airway, managing pain, and preventing complications
Swelling can lead to airway narrowing after UPP or modUPP surgery so what should be monitored?
respiratory effort and gas exchange using pulse oximetry or end-tidal CO2 measurement
How often and for what should a patient after UPP or modUPP surgery be evaluated for?
every 2 hrs during the 1st 24hrs for signs of obstruction such as increases respiratory effort, stridor, drooling, changes in voice quality, or reduced oxygen saturation
If when monitoring a post-op patient who just underwent UPP or modUPP is having signs of obstruction such as increased respiratory effort, stridor, drooling, changes in voice quality, or reduced oxygen saturation, what should you do?
Notify the Rapid Response Team immediately
Why is it essential to control the pain of a patient who just underwent UPP/ modUPP surgery?
the oropharynx is very sensitive
In the 1st 24hrs after the more complex surgeries for OSA the patient’s pain level is quite high, so what is provided?
intravenous pain medication, with scheduled dosing to provide better relief than the as-needed administration
What meds are avoided post-surgery of a OSA patient? Why?
Aspirin and NSAIDS; to reduce the risk of bleeding
What is the nursing plan for a post-op OSA patient?
regularly examine the surgical site for bleeding and monitor for signs of increased swallowing or belching- which may indicate blood dripping down the throat; watch for signs of infection- such as purulent exudate, foul breath, or red mucous membranes (report any findings immediately); admin prescribed IV meds for pain; admin prescribed antibiotics
Educate the patient that they must not use a toothbrush until they are cleared to resume regular brushing and flossing, why? What should be used in its place?
Infection risk is heightened due to disrupted tissue integrity; oral sponges or mouthwash
Proper CPAP compressor and mask/ tubing system maintenance is essential for what?
effective OSA management
What is crucial concerning CPAP machines to prevent infection and maintain tissue integrity, especially with humidification, which can increase the risk of fungal infections?
regular equipment cleaning
What do most CPAP systems require in the humidifier?
distilled water
How often should the mask or nasal pillow be cleaned and how should they be cleaned?
daily; using manufacturer-recommended products
Patients with OSA that use a CPAP, should be advised to not share what and why?
their CPAP mask, pillows or tubing; to reduce the risk of infection
For patients who have undergone surgery for OSA, what is important to regularly check?
the oropharynx for signs of bleeding, swelling, or infection
A small amount of blood in saliva or mucus, particularly after coughing, is normal for a post-op OSA patient. What is not normal and must be immediately reported?
new bleeding, large clots, or bright red blood may signal a serious issue, and the patient should contact their surgeon immediately or visit the ER
Patients, who are post-op OSA patients, should be taught to use a mirror for what purpose?
to examine their throat twice daily, noting any changes in size using coin size for comparison. If the throat appears to be narrowing, or if swallowing becomes difficult or painful, especially with drooling, they should seek emergency care as these are signs of swelling that may obstruct the airway.
With a post-op OSA patient- what is expected to decrease gradually, and swallowing should become what over time?
pain; more comfortable
What should a post-op OSA patient be educated to drink/ eat after surgery that will help ease discomfort?
drink cool liquids, use a humidifier, gargle with warm salt water, eat soft foods
What should a post-op OSA patient report to the surgeon?
any increase in pain or worsening difficulty swallowing
Educate the post-op OSA patient on the signs of infection. What are they? What should they do if any of these occur?
increased swelling, pus in the oropharynx, a change in mucous membrane color to bright red, increased pain, fever, taste changes, or bad breath; contact the surgeon
Activity restrictions for post-op OSA patients will depend upon what?
the type of surgery that was performed
Patients should be educated on the importance of the surgeon’s restrictions to avoid what?
complications
What are some restrictions that a surgeon may put on a post-op OSA patient?
avoid heavy lifting; avoid doing the Valsalva maneuver
Some patients may feel anxious about using a CPAP. What should you provide them as the nurse to help them feel more knowledgable and to help them with the adjustment period?
written & digital instructions; contact information for OSA specialists; CPAP supply resources
Post-op OSA patients may worry about the procedure’s success, pain, or swallowing difficulties. What is important that nurses reassure them?
that pain & difficulty swallowing is normal post-surgery and should improve within a week; snoring and sleep apnea may persist briefly due to swelling, but this should subside as healing progresses
What are the expected outcomes for the patient post-OSA surgery?
maintain normal blood pressure or achieve controlled hypertension with appropriate therapy; patient adheres to prescribed nonsurgical interventions and experiences fewer apnea episodes lasting 10 sec or longer during sleep; improved gas exchange and extended periods of restorative sleep are anticipated leading to reduced daytime sleepiness and increased energy levels; have a smooth, uneventful recovery from any surgical intervention
What could occur from a variety of causes, including trauma to the nasal mucosa, hypertension, blood disorders like leukemia, inflammation, tumors, low humidity, nose blowing, nose picking, chronic cocaine use, and procedures like nasogastric suctioning?
epistaxis (nosebleed)
When a nosebleed occurs what is important to document?
the amount and color of blood, vital signs should be taken, and inquire about any previous episodes including their frequency, duration, and causes