Oxygen Flashcards
What three processes are involved in respiration?
ventilation, diffusion and perfusion
Define ventilation
the process of moving gases into and out of the lungs
Define diffusion
the movement of O2 and CO2 between the alveoli and the RBCs
Define perfusion
the distribution of RBCs to and from the pulmonary capillaries
Define atelectasis
complete or partial collapse of the lung
What four factors affect oxygenation?
physiological, developmental, lifestyle and environmental
What are some environmental factors that affect oxygenation?
altitude, air pollution and occupational hazards
What should you do if your patient is having trouble breathing?
-O2 sat
-raise head of bed
-listen to breathing
-full set of vitals
Remember: we must treat the underlying cause of the shortness of breath so having all of the information is important
What are some oxygenation tests?
-pulse oximetry
-capillary blood gases
-arterial blood gases
What are pulmonary function tests?
tests used to evaluate lung function of clients with lung diseases– the tests measure lung volume and capacity
Define hyperventilation
-breathing >25bpm
-attempting to reduce carbon dioxide
-other symptoms include headache, light-headedness and dizziness
Define hypoventilation
-breathing <12bpm
-increases carbon dioxide
-other symptoms include change in LOC, arrhythmias and possible cardiac arrest
Define orthopnea
ability to breathe only in the upright sitting or standing position
Define dyspnea
difficult and laboured breathing during which the individual has a persistent, unsatisfied need for air and feels distressed
What is the first sign of hypoxia?
restlessness and apprehension
other signs include:
-tachycardia
-tachypnea
-nasal flaring
-decreasing LOC
-dizziness
-hypoventilation
-cyanosis