Respiratory Emergencies Flashcards
What is Respiratory Failure?
Inability of lungs to oxygenate blood or remove CO2, leading to hypoxemia, hypercapnia, or both.
What does FiO2 stand for and what is its significance?
Fraction of Inspired Oxygen; atmospheric air is 21%, supplemental O2 increases FiO2.
What is PEEP and its purpose?
Positive End-Expiratory Pressure; prevents alveolar collapse, improving gas exchange.
What is the normal range for ETCO2?
35-45mmHg; hypercapnia (>45mmHg), hypocapnia (<35mmHg).
What are the characteristics of Emphysema?
Alveolar destruction reducing gas exchange surface area.
What are the characteristics of Chronic Bronchitis?
Airway inflammation and mucus production causing expiratory obstruction.
What is a common treatment for COPD?
Bronchodilators (Salbutamol, Atrovent), oxygen, hydration, transport.
What characterizes an Asthma Exacerbation?
Bronchospasm, inflammation, and mucus production, leading to air trapping.
What is the treatment for Asthma Exacerbation?
Bronchodilators, oxygen, permissive hypercapnia, avoid excessive ventilation.
What are common symptoms of Pneumonia?
Cough, fever, chills, and shortness of breath.
What is the treatment for Pneumonia?
Oxygen, bronchodilators if wheezing, hydration, fever management (Tylenol).
What is Anaphylactic Shock?
Severe allergic reaction causing vasodilation, airway swelling, and bronchoconstriction.
What is the primary treatment for Anaphylactic Shock?
Epinephrine IM, antihistamines (Diphenhydramine), bronchodilators, IV fluids.
What causes Pulmonary Edema?
Fluid accumulation in the lungs, often due to CHF.
What is a common treatment for Pulmonary Edema?
Oxygen, positioning (Full Fowler’s), PEEP if required, avoid IV fluids, rapid transport.
What is Pulmonary Embolism?
Sudden blockage of a pulmonary artery, often due to a DVT.
What are signs of Pulmonary Embolism?
Acute shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain, hypoxemia, clear lung sounds.
What is the treatment for Pulmonary Embolism?
High-flow O2, ETCO2 monitoring, rapid transport.
What is a Pneumothorax?
Air in pleural space causing lung collapse.
What characterizes a Tension Pneumothorax?
Tracheal deviation, JVD, absent breath sounds, tachycardia.
What is an Open Pneumothorax?
Sucking chest wound requiring occlusive dressing.
What is the treatment for Pneumothorax?
Oxygen, needle decompression (ALS), rapid transport.
What are the symptoms of Croup?
Barking cough, stridor, gradual onset.
What are the symptoms of Epiglottitis?
Rapid onset stridor, drooling, high fever, tripod position.
What is the treatment for Croup?
Oxygen, keeping patient calm, passive cooling, avoiding oral exams.
What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and its treatment?
Treat with high-flow O2, transport, monitor SPO2 (may be falsely high).
What is Hydrogen Cyanide and how is it treated?
Blocks cellular oxygen use; treat with high-flow O2, transport.
What is Hydrogen Sulfide and its potential effects?
Can cause respiratory failure and cardiac arrest; treat with oxygen, transport.
