respiratory disorder Flashcards
Which symptom is commonly associated with chronic bronchitis?
Chronic bronchitis is defined by a persistent cough with sputum production for at least three months over two consecutive years. The cough can be productive (with mucus) or non-productive (dry).
What is the primary cause of airflow obstruction in COPD?
Smoking is the leading cause of COPD. It causes airway inflammation, mucus production, and destruction of lung tissue, leading to airflow obstruction. Other factors contribute, but smoking is the primary risk factor.
What type of cough is often associated with upper respiratory irritations?
Nonproductive cough
what is the mean of nonproductive cough
A nonproductive cough, meaning a cough without mucus production, is frequently associated with upper respiratory tract irritation. This is because irritants trigger cough reflexes without necessarily causing significant mucus build-up.
How do corticosteroids help manage exacerbations in asthma and COPD?
Corticosteroids help manage asthma and COPD exacerbations by:
-Reducing inflammation in the airways
-Decreasing mucus production
-Improving airflow and breathing
They are often used alongside bronchodilators for better control of symptoms during acute episodes.
what is the hall mark of COPD
dyspnea
what is the barrel chest
The lungs fill with air and are unable to fully breathe out. This gives the chest a pronounced barrel shape
-Barrel chest is a visible symptom of COPD, emphysema, osteoarthritis, and CF.
Describe the pathophysiology of COPD and how it affects airflow.
COPD leads to airflow limitation due to:
-Thickened, inflamed airway walls
-Excess mucus production, causing blockages
-Destruction of alveolar walls
-Loss of airway elasticity
These changes result in difficulty breathing, increased breathlessness, and reduced airflow, making it progressively harder to breathe over time.
Explain the role of accessory muscles in breathing for patients with COPD.
Accessory muscles in COPD help with breathing when the diaphragm is insufficient. They include:
-Sternocleidomastoid
-Scalene
-Trapezius
-Internal intercostal
-Abdominal muscles
These muscles assist in expanding the chest and improving airflow, especially during exertion or respiratory distress.
What lifestyle changes can be recommended to a patient diagnosed with COPD?
Recommended lifestyle changes for COPD patients:
-Stop smoking
-Use medications and inhalers as prescribed
-Use oxygen therapy if needed
-Exercise regularly and maintain good nutrition
-Get flu and pneumonia vaccines
-Avoid pollutants, allergens, and extreme temperatures
-Stay indoors during high pollen counts
Explain the importance of vaccination in the management of COPD patients.
Vaccination is crucial for COPD patients because it:
-Reduces the risk of influenza and its complications
-Lowers the chance of pneumonia, a common issue for COPD sufferers
-Enhances overall respiratory health and prevents exacerbations
Annual flu and pneumonia vaccines are strongly recommended.
What are the potential complications associated with untreated COPD?
Potential complications of untreated COPD include:
-Respiratory infections
-Heart problems (like heart failure)
-Lung cancer
-Increased breathlessness
-Chronic respiratory failure
-Depression and anxiety
-Reduced quality of life
These complications can
worsen health and lead to hospitalization.
What is the primary characteristic of bronchospasm in asthma?
Bronchospasm is reversible
What medication class is used to relieve bronchospasm in COPD patients?
Bronchodilators
What type of breathing technique can help patients with COPD manage dyspnea?
Pursed-lip breathing
What are the clinical manifestations of acute exacerbations in COPD?
-increased breathlessness
-Worsening cough (dry or productive)
-Increased sputum
production
-Wheezing and crackles
-Cyanosis
-Peripheral edema
-Fatigue
-Limitation of physical activity
What is a common symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
Shortness of breath
Discuss the importance of spirometry in assessing respiratory function.
Spirometry is crucial for assessing respiratory function because it measures:
-Airflow rates and volumes
-Mechanical properties of the respiratory system
-Helps diagnose conditions like asthma and COPD
-Monitors treatment effectiveness
-Ensures reproducibility with multiple tests
It provides essential data for patient management.
How does hypoxemia affect gas exchange in the lungs?
Hypoxemia reduces oxygen levels in the blood, leading to impaired gas exchange in the lungs. This can cause:
-Decreased oxygen delivery to tissues
-Increased carbon dioxide retention
-Shortness of breath
-Potential respiratory acidosis Overall, it negatively impacts respiratory function and overall health.
How does alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency relate to COPD?
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that can lead to COPD in about 2% of cases. It reduces protection against lung damage from protease enzymes, contributing to airway inflammation and destruction, which worsens airflow and lung function in COPD patients.
What are the differences between chronic bronchitis and emphysema as forms of COPD?
Chronic Bronchitis:
-Chronic inflammation
-Excess mucus production
-Persistent productive cough
Emphysema:
-Destruction of alveoli
-Enlarged air sacs
-Reduced oxygen exchange
Both are forms of COPD but differ in symptoms and lung damage.
Which symptom indicates progression of COPD in this patient?
Dyspnea on rest
What is the cornerstone of modern therapy for COPD?
Nursing interventions for COPD include:
-Monitor vital signs, sputum, weight, and pulse oximetry
-Position patient in Fowler’s position
-Teach diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing
-Administer low-flow oxygen (1-2 L/min) via Venturi mask
-Encourage fluid intake (up to 3000 ml/day)
-Provide high-calorie, high-protein diet
-Allow activity as tolerated
What is the role of hydration(الرطوبه) in managing respiratory conditions like COPD?
Hydration helps to thin secretions and improve airway clearance
