Lung Diseases: Pleural Effusion

Question 1

causes of pleural effusion

Answer 1

CHF, pneumonia, malignancy

- also PE, virus, CABG, cirrhosis, TB

Question 2

definition of pleural effusion

Answer 2

collection of fluid in pleural space where there is normally only a small amount of fluid to prevent friction as the lung expands and deflates. Any condition that interferes with the secretion or drainage of fluid will lead to PE

Question 3

transudative PE

Answer 3

fluid substance that has passed thru a membrane or has been forced out of the tissue. CHF

Question 4

exudative PE

Answer 4

fluid w/ a high content of protein and cellular debris that has escaped from BVs and has been depositied into tissues. it is the result of increased permeability or trauma. Infection, trauma, PE, pneumonia, heart abnormalities

Question 5

Dx of pleural effusion

Answer 5

chest xray, CT scan, ultrasound

Question 6

prognosis

Answer 6

cardiac fxn declines with decreased venous return to heart, overall prognosis depends on underlying pathology and causes, can cause atelectasis if left untreated

Question 7

mechanical effect of PE

Answer 7

fluid applies pressure to lung and prevents it from expanding

Question 8

clinical presentation

Answer 8

SOB, trachea deviated to opposite side of effusion, chest pain, edema in LE, tachycardia, abnormal pulse

Question 9

breath sounds

Answer 9

diminished

• egophony (ee)
• over PE areas e will sound like aaayyyy (goat bleat)

Question 10

treatment

Answer 10

treat the underlying cause! breathing, coughing, postural drainage, percussion, vibration