Respiratory - Asthma Flashcards
Why should oxygen supplementation be used cautiously in patients with COPD?
The oxygen may be unable to be used due to blockages, and failing respiratory system
What is asthma?
A chronic inflammation of the airways
What are 3 signs of samters triad?
Asthma
Aspirin sensitivity
Nasal polyps
What does it mean in terms of medication, when a patient has samters triad?
Aspirin and other NSAID can have a reverse reaction
What exposures can cause an exacerbation of asthma?
Heavy molecules (flour) can have immediate complications Light molecules (wood dust) can build up and cause complications
What causes asthma?
allergens trigger release of IgE antibodies which leads to smooth muscle contraction, which along with inflammation causes airway obstruction
How can asthma cause irreversible damage over time?
In response to inflammation, the airways lay down fibrous tissue, which causes narrowing of the airway
What are 3 signs of asthma?
expiratory polyphonic wheeze
prolonged expiration
cough
What is a polyphonic wheeze?
hears many different tones simultaneously
What is a sign of an acute asthma attack?
Reduced peak expiratory flow
What is a symptom and vitals of severe asthma attack?
Cant complete a sentence
High heart and RR rate
What are 2 symptoms of a life-threatening asthma attack?
Cyanosis
Silent chest
O2 below 92%
What is the FEV1% in obstructive lung disease?
Below 70%
What are the four steps for a patient with mild asthma?
- Move to a calm environment
- Encourage use of inhaler
- Administer oxygen
- Administer salbutamol
What are the 3 steps for a patient with severe asthma who are unresponsive to treatment for mild asthma?
Administer ipratropium bromide
Administer corticosteroids
Continue with salbutamol
