Respiratory conditions and management Flashcards
What occurs in an obstructive airway disease?
The passage of air is stopped meaning it takes more effort for the lungs to expans affecting the alveoli membrane.
What are some examples of obstructive airway diseases?
Asthma and COPD
What are some triggers for Asthma?
Environmental exposure to allergens such as pets, irritant dusts, vapour and fumes, drugs such as NSAIDS, B0adrenoreceptors.
What happens during asthma?
The mucous membrane and mucus layers of the bronchioles become inflamed and swollen. This therefore reduces the airflow.
What is a bronchospasm and bronchial odema?
Constriction of smooth muscle surrounding the larger bronchi in the lungs.
What can asthma cause?
A productive cough and tightness to the chest.
What is important during the assessment of asthma?
Establishing a hx of asthma, the hx of the symptoms such as the wheeze/ tight chest.
What is the management for asthma?
Oxygen to maintain saturations to 94-98%, Salbutomal (5MG) through the nebuliser, Ipratropium bromide 500MCG if salbutamol is not working. Corticosteroids can be used if the bronchodilators are not working such as hydrocortisone.
What is some additional management for asthma?
IV fluids
What are the two types of COPD
Emphysema and chronic Bronchitus
Is COPD reversible?
No
What is the management of COPD?
Bronchodialators such as salbutamol and Ipratropium bromide. The nebuliser needs to be limited to six minutes on. If the bronchodilators do not work, Corticosteroids can be used such as hydrocortisone or prednisone.
