Pleurisy Flashcards
what are the symptoms of pleurisy?
Sharp, localized chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or movement.
Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
Cough
Decreased breath sounds over the affected area
who is at risk?
Postoperative patients
Bedridden patients
Smokers
Patients with lung disease (COPD, pneumonia, TB, lung cancer)
Patients with airway obstruction
what are the causes?
Infections (viral, bacterial, fungal)
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
Lung cancer
Chest trauma (rib fractures, surgery)
Gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., pancreatitis, esophageal rupture)
Certain medications (e.g., hydralazine, procainamide)
how does the pt present?
Shallow, rapid breathing to minimize chest pain
Pain worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or movement
what does PE show?
Pleural friction rub (scratchy sound on auscultation)
what does x ray, ultrasound, or CT show?
to identify inflammation or underlying lung pathology
what do blood tests show?
to check for infection or autoimmune disorders
what are the lung sounds in pleurisy?
Pleural friction rub (grating sound during inspiration & expiration)
Decreased breath sounds if pleural effusion develops
what are the treatment given?
Antibiotics → If caused by bacterial infection
Anti-inflammatory drugs → If autoimmune disease is the cause
what is used for pain relief?
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) → First-line treatment for pain and inflammation
Acetaminophen → For mild cases
Intercostal nerve blocks → For severe pain
what do you do to splint the ribcage
Holding a pillow or pressing on the affected side while coughing
what does slow, deep breathing do
Prevents complications like atelectasis (lung collapse)
why should you avoid rapid shallow breathing
Reduces discomfort and helps maintain lung function
how do you prevent pleurisy
Encourage incentive spirometry (prevents lung complications)
Early ambulation & movement (prevents lung collapse)
Pain control to facilitate deep breathing
Hydration & smoking cessation (to reduce irritation)
