pneumonia case
TRANSCRIPT
INTRODUCTION
A. Current trends about the disease condition
Pneumonia is an illness of the lungs and respiratory system in which the alveoli
(microscopic air-filled sacs of the lung responsible for absorbing oxygen from the
atmosphere) become inflamed and flooded with fluid. Pneumonia can result from a
variety of causes, including infection with bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites.
It is also called Pneumonitis or Bronchopneumonia. Although Pneumonitis is
actually a general term which refers to the inflammation of the lungs and Pneumonia is
one of the common Pneumonitis. While it is called Bronchopneumonia because
“broncho” indicate that of the lungs. Pneumonia is a serious infection that affects the air
sacs in the lungs, resulting to significant reduction in oxygenation. Because of this, the
oxygen will have difficulty reaching the blood. If there is too little oxygen in the blood,
body cells cannot work properly. As a result, infection will spread.
Pneumonia is a special concern to both extremes of age – the too old and the too
young, because it is during this time the individual is most at risk, for the too old, it is for
the reason that their immune system is degenerating, while for the too young it is
because their immune system is not yet fully developed. Although these extremes of
age are greatly at risk, Pneumonia can also affect healthy individuals, it is a common
illness that affects thousands of people in the Philippines each year. It remains as the
leading cause of morbidity in the country (according to the Department of Health).
Appropriate nursing care should be given to patients with Pneumonia. Health care
providers should remain vigilant with regards to dealing with this kind of disease.
Nurses, in cooperation with other members of the health care team should not only
focus on the curative aspect of the disease but to its preventive aspect as well. A patient
with pneumonia should be given appropriate care in order to hasten his/her recovery.
The focus should not only be in the patient himself but to the public as well for a person
with pneumonia could also infect other people around him/her.
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A major trial of a pneumococcal vaccine in South Africa has given children extra
protection against the deadly infection.
The World Health Organization (WHO), which helped run the testing program,
says that pneumonia, caused by pneumococcus bacteria, is the leading cause of death
in children worldwide. It claims approximately four million lives a year, predominantly in
less developed countries.
Although the lung congestion has many causes, the most common is
pneumococcus. The bacterium can also cause meningitis, ear infections and sinusitis.
The trial involved 40,000 children in Soweto, and found that the new vaccine
reduced the incidence of pneumonia by more than 20%.
In addition, the vaccine reduced the incidence of "invasive pneumococcal
disease" - where bacteria can be found in the bloodstream - by more than 80%. The
invasive form of the disease was reduced in incidence even in HIV-infected children.
Pneumococcal disease is one of the predatory illnesses most likely to kill HIV-
positive children in developing countries.
Researchers show a new type of vaccine can reduce the incidence of pneumonia
in children with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Acute respiratory
infections are a major cause of death in children under age 5. Additionally, pneumonia
is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Doctors from around the world are in
search of new methods to treat the illness. Researchers, conducted a study with nearly
40,000 children in South Africa. At 6 weeks, 10 weeks and 14 weeks of age, half of the
children received the 9-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. All of the children
received the flu vaccine. The researchers found the pneumonia vaccine decreased the
rate of the particular strain of pneumonia in the vaccine, by 72 percent. It also reduced
the rate of confirmed cases by 17 percent. In an accompanying editorial, the authors
write, “The decrease in these two outcomes were remarkably similar in both U.S.
children and South African children. However, in South Africa about one third of the
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cases of invasive disease caused by serotypes included in the vaccine were associated
with meningitis, a much higher proportion than in the United States.” This vaccine,
according to the study investigators, may be useful in countries where HIV infection is a
significant cause of pneumonia. It also may reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.
However researchers noted an increase in asthma in those who received the vaccine,
but that reason is not yet understood.
Another study showed particularly UT Southwestern Medical Center scientists
have revealed that a combination of corticosteroids with traditional antimicrobial therapy
may help people with pneumonia recover more quickly than with antibiotics alone.
Corticosteroids are often used to treat inflammation related to infectious diseases, such
as bacterial meningitis, but they have been rendered ineffective in case of other
infectious diseases. In a new study, scientists have shown that mice with a type of
severe bacterial pneumonia, when treated with steroids and antibiotics recovered faster.
The steroid treated mice had far less inflammation in their lungs than mice treated with
antibiotics alone. "Some people might think that if you give steroids, it would counteract
the effect of the antibiotic. But it turns out you need the antibiotic to kill the bug and the
steroid to make the inflammation in the lung from the infection get better. The steroids
don't kill the bugs, but they do help restore health," said Dr. Robert Hardy, associate
professor of internal medicine and pediatrics and the study's senior author. For the
study, the researchers gave a daily treatment of a placebo, an antibiotic, a steroid, or a
combination of the antibiotic and steroid to mice infected with the M pneumoniae
bacterium. The animals were then evaluated after one, three and six days of therapy. "It
turns out that the group that got both the antibiotic and the steroids did the best. The
inflammation in their lungs got significantly better," said Hardy . While antimicrobials
have been the primary therapy for M pneumoniae infection, many physicians have tried
adding steroids to the treatment regimen of patients with severe cases. But, Hardy said
that the problem is that those were individual case reports. "They never had a control
group, so it was impossible to tell what impact the addition of steroids had on recovery,"
he said. The new findings suggest that giving antibiotics with steroids can help
individuals with pneumonia get better faster. Also, the research suggests a potentially
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more effective therapy for someone in the midst of an asthma attack due to M
pneumoniae infection.
The student nurses chose Pneumonia for a case study because it is a
very interesting topic. It is one of the common problems in the country. It
remains the leading cause of morbidity in the Philippines as stated by the
department of Health. It is commonly mistaken as a common cough and cold
because it manifests almost the same signs and symptoms, for this reason,
people with this respiratory problem usually take it for granted. With this, the
student-nurses decided to choose the case of Pneumonia for their case
study.
OBJECTIVES
A. Student-Nurse Centered
After the completion of the case study, the researchers will be able
to:
General Objective:
Gain knowledge and deeper understanding of the disease
process itself, be able to provide the best nursing care for the
client, and impart health teachings regarding the client’s condition
in maintaining an optimum level of functioning.
Specific Objectives:
1. Interpret the current trends and statistics regarding the
disease condition;
2. Relate the present state of the client with his personal and
pertinent family history;
3. Analyze and interpret the different diagnostic and laboratory
procedures, its purpose and its essential relationship to
client’s disease condition;
4. Identify treatment modalities and its importance like drugs,
diet and exercise;
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5. Identify surgical management and its purpose that is
applicable with the disease condition;
6. Formulate nursing care plans based on the prioritized health
needs of the client;
7. Gain knowledge on the acquisition and progression of the
disease;
8. Impart knowledge on fellow students in providing care for
clients with the same illness.
B. Patient-Centered
After the completion of the study, the patient will be able to:
General Objective:
Acquire knowledge on the risk factors that have contributed to
the development of the disease, gain understanding of the disease
process and demonstrate compliance on the treatment management
rendered by the health care team.
Specific Objectives:
1. Gain knowledge about the disease;
2. Identify different interventions in his condition;
3. Gain knowledge on the importance of compliance to treatment
regimen;
4. Demonstrate compliance on the treatment management;
5. Identify different measures to prevent further aggravation of
condition;
6. Participate in his plan of care; and
7. Demonstrate independence on self-care and home
management upon discharge and during follow-up home visits.
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NURSING ASSESSMENT
PERSONAL DATA
Our patient is Ashleyto Montemayor, male, 2 years of age, residing in a barrio
somewhere in Pangasinan. He was born via normal delivery on April 09, 2007, on their
home by a midwife. He had 2 brothers and 2 sisters. He admitted to one of the hospital
in Pampanga last August 18, 2009
PERTINENT FAMILY HISTORY
Ashleyto Montemayor belongs to a family of 7, with two sisters, and two brothers.
All of them were born under Normal spontaneous delivery. The family belongs to a
nuclear family. The father’s job is a contractual carpenter and earns around 450 a day
while the mother is a plain housewife. Based on the father’s salary, they have
inadequate amount of money to spend on their daily living. According to our informant,
they live in a squatter’s area and they live near the road in which they are exposed in
pollution.
PERSONAL HISTORY
Ashleyto is 2 year old boy, a Roman Catholic and daughter of Mr. Montemayor and Mrs.
Montemayor who currently resides somewhere in Pangasinan and was born on April 09,
2007 in their house with the help of a midwife. He is the 2nd youngest among the five
children in the family and presently lives with her parents and siblings. (Such
informations are provided by Mrs. Montemayor).
HISTORY OF PAST ILLNESS
According to Mrs.Montemayor, her son didn’t acquire such illness before. He was
only affected by his sister’s colds and cough.
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HISTORY OF PRESENT ILLNESS
Ashleyto’s mother didn’t expect that her child was suffering from Bronchial
Pneumonia because at first, it was only cough and DOB. Days passed and Ashleyto’s
mother decided to bring her son to the hospital because Ashleyto started to vomit due to
hyperthermia.
As seen on the schematic diagram our patient’s father smoked and drunk alcohol
while his wife was pregnant with Ashleyto that is why Ashleyto’s immune system is
compromised. His sister had colds and cough before Ashleyto acquired the same
illness. Ashleyto’s unresolved colds and cough led to her difficulty of breathing, which
further led to pneumonia.
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PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
August 18, 2009(Day of admission)Patient Ashleyto upon admission: (lifted from the chart)
Flushed skin
(-) Edema
Vital Signs:
o Body temperature of 37.4 OC (febrile) (Normal=36.8OC)
o Heart rate of 135 bpm (tachycardia) (Normal=80-120bpm)
o Respiratory rate of 46 bpm (tachypnea) (Normal=25-40bpm)
August 19, 2009(1st day)
General appearance:
o conscious and coherent
o irritable
Vital Signs: (lifted from the chart)
o Body temperature of 37.9 OC (febrile) (Normal=36.8OC)
o Heart rate of 130 bpm (tachycardia) (Normal=80-120bpm)
o Respiratory rate of 48 bpm (tachypnea) (Normal=25-40bpm)
August 20, 2009 (2nd day)
General appearance:
o conscious and coherent
o irritable
Vital Signs:
o Body temperature of 37.6 OC (febrile) (Normal=36.8OC)
o Heart rate of 130 bpm (tachycardia) (Normal=80-120bpm)
o Respiratory rate of 46 bpm (tachypnea) (Normal=25-40bpm
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Head:
o No tenderness upon palpation
o No presence of lesions and scar
o symmetric facial features and movement
Skin:
o Fair complexion
o With good skin turgor
o (-) cyanosis
o No lesions or rashes noted
o Flushed skin
o Pale skin
Hair:
o Hair is evenly distributed
o Has short, black and dry hair
o No presence of dandruff and pediculosis upon inspection
Nails:
o Nails are clean and short
o Capillary refill 2-3 sec.
Eyes and Vision:
o Both eyes are symmetrical
o Elicited blink reflex upon assessment
o Has pale conjunctiva
o Dark circles under the eyes
o Sclera appears white
o Pupils are equally round reactive to light and accommodation
Ears:
o Ears are at the level of the outer cantus of the eye
o They are symmetrical in size and shape
o No presence of lesions noted
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o No presence of discharges
o Pinna recoils after it is folded
Nose and sinuses:
o Presence of clear, watery discharges
o No lesions noted
o No presence of tenderness upon palpation
o With nasal flaring noted
Mouth:
o No lesions and tenderness noted
o Teeth are white and clean
o No presence of dental caries
Neck:
o Absence of masses
o No pain and swelling
o Trachea is on the middle of the neck
Thorax and Lungs:
o With symmetrical lung expansion
o Presence of wheezes on bilateral lung fields
o Respiratory rate is above normal (46bpm)
o Difficulty of breathing and shortness of breath
Abdomen:
o No tenderness upon palpation
o Absence of wounds, scar, and lesion upon inspection
o Absence of swelling or lump upon palpation
Extremities:
o No scar, lesion and wounds noted
o No deformities
o Absence of nodule and edema
Symmetrical in shape and size
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August 21, 2009 (3rd day)
General appearance:
o conscious and coherent
o irritable
Vital Signs:
o Body temperature of 36.7OC (febrile) (Normal=36.8OC)
o Heart rate of 121 bpm (tachycardia) (Normal=80-120bpm)
o Respiratory rate of 35 bpm (tachypnea) (Normal=25-40bpm
Head:
o No tenderness upon palpation
o No presence of lesions and scar
o symmetric facial features and movement
Skin:
o Fair complexion
o With good skin turgor
o (-) cyanosis
o No lesions or rashes noted
o Flushed skin
o Pale skin
Hair:
o Hair is evenly distributed
o Has short, black and dry hair
o No presence of dandruff and pediculosis upon inspection
Nails:
o Nails are clean and short
o Capillary refill 2-3 sec.
Eyes and Vision:
o Both eyes are symmetrical
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o Elicited blink reflex upon assessment
o Has pale conjunctiva
o Dark circles under the eyes
o Sclera appears white
o Pupils are equally round reactive to light and accommodation
Ears:
o Ears are at the level of the outer cantus of the eye
o They are symmetrical in size and shape
o No presence of lesions noted
o No presence of discharges
o Pinna recoils after it is folded
Nose and sinuses:
o Presence of clear, watery discharges
o No lesions noted
o No presence of tenderness upon palpation
o With nasal flaring noted
Mouth:
o No lesions and tenderness noted
o Teeth are white and clean
o No presence of dental caries
Neck:
o Absence of masses
o No pain and swelling
o Trachea is on the middle of the neck
Thorax and Lungs:
o With symmetrical lung expansion
o Presence of wheezes on bilateral lung fields
Abdomen:
o No tenderness upon palpation
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o Absence of wounds, scar, and lesion upon inspection
o Absence of swelling or lump upon palpation
Extremities:
o No scar, lesion and wounds noted
o No deformities
o Absence of nodule and edema
o Symmetrical in shape and size
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LABORATORY PROCEDURES
DIAGNOSTIC
PROCEDURE
DATE
ORDERED/
DATE
RESULTS
IN
INDICATION(S)/
PURPOSE(S)
RESULTS NORMAL
VALUES
ANALYSIS AND
INTERPRETATION OF
RESULTS
HEMATOLOGY
a) Hemoglobin
(hgb)
DO:
08-18-2009 It measures the
oxygen carrying
capacity of the blood
since hemoglobin is
the primary component
of the blood which
carries oxygen. Hgb
serves as a vehicle for
oxygen and carbon
dioxide transport.
Since asthma attacks
causes bronchospasm
which alters ventilation
150g/L M- 140-180 g/L Client’s hgb level is
within the normal range
of the standard hgb level
of the hospital.
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b. Hematocrit
(Hct)
c. White Blood Cell
(WBC)
and perfusion of the
lungs, therefore
oxygenation of the
blood may be affected.
To aid in the
calculation of
erythrocyte indices and
in the diagnosis of
anemia, polycythemia,
or abnormal states of
hydration.
To determine infection
or inflammation
caused by periods of
reversible spasms and
prolonged contraction
of the airway. To
determine the need for
further tests, such as
WBC differential or
bone marrow biopsy.
.43
14.8 9/L
M- 0.42-0.54
5-10 9/L
Client’s hct level is within
the normal range of
standard hct level of the
hospital.
Client’s WBC count is
above the normal range
of standard WBC count
of the hospital.
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d. Lymphocytes
e. Segmenters
To determine
lymphocyte blood
count. To assess and
monitor acquired
immunodeficiency
status. Since
lymphocytes play an
important role in the
immunity. They are the
one responsible for the
activities of the
immune system.
To measure the
neutrophil percentage
in the blood volume for
WBC differential count
.29
0.71
0.22-0.40
0.66-0.70
Client’s lymphocyte
blood count is within the
normal range of
standard WBC count of
the hospital.
An increased in the
number of segmenters
shows that the patient
has infection.
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NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
Before:
Explain the purpose and procedure to the pt’s SO.
Restrict foods and fluids for 4-8 hours before test
During:
Pre medications are seldom given unless the client is extremely apprehensive or has nausea and vomiting
Mineral oil or conducive gel is applied to the skin surface at the site to be examined
The client’s position may vary from supine to oblique, prone, semi recumbent, and erect
Average time for procedure is 30 minutes
After:
Remove conducive gel applied on chest
Explain the ultrasound results to the client.
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ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Respiratory System, in anatomy and physiology, organs that deliver oxygen to the
circulatory system for transport to all body cells. Oxygen is essential for cells, which use
this vital substance to liberate the energy needed for cellular activities. In addition to
supplying oxygen, the respiratory system aids in removing of carbon dioxide, preventing
the lethal buildup of this waste product in body tissues. Day-in and day-out, without the
prompt of conscious thought, the respiratory system carries out its life-sustaining
activities. If the respiratory system’s tasks are interrupted for more than a few minutes,
serious, irreversible damage to tissues occurs, followed by the failure of all body
systems, and ultimately, death.
While the intake of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide are the primary
functions of the respiratory system, it plays other important roles in the body. The
respiratory system helps regulate the balance of acid and base in tissues, a process
crucial for the normal functioning of cells. It protects the body against disease-causing
organisms and toxic substances inhaled with air. The respiratory system also houses
the cells that detect smell, and assists in the production of sounds for speech.
The respiratory and circulatory systems work together to deliver oxygen to cells
and remove carbon dioxide in a two-phase process called respiration. The first phase of
respiration begins with breathing in, or inhalation. Inhalation brings air from outside the
body into the lungs. Oxygen in the air moves from the lungs through blood vessels to
the heart, which pumps the oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body. Oxygen then
moves from the bloodstream into cells, which completes the first phase of respiration. In
the cells, oxygen is used in a separate energy-producing process called cellular
respiration, which produces carbon dioxide as a byproduct. The second phase of
respiration begins with the movement of carbon dioxide from the cells to the
bloodstream. The bloodstream carries carbon dioxide to the heart, which pumps the
carbon dioxide-laden blood to the lungs. In the lungs, breathing out, or exhalation,
removes carbon dioxide from the body, thus completing the respiration cycle.
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STRUCTURE
The organs of the respiratory system extend from the nose to the lungs and are
divided into the upper and lower respiratory tracts. The upper respiratory tract consists
of the nose and the pharynx, or throat. The lower respiratory tract includes the larynx, or
voice box; the trachea, or windpipe, which splits into two main branches called bronchi;
tiny branches of the bronchi called bronchioles; and the lungs, a pair of saclike, spongy
organs. The nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles conduct air to and
from the lungs. The lungs interact with the circulatory system to deliver oxygen and
remove carbon dioxide.
NASAL PASSAGES
Anatomy of the Nose
The uppermost
portion of the human
respiratory system, the nose
is a hollow air passage that
functions in breathing and in the sense of smell. The nasal cavity moistens and warms
incoming air, while small hairs and mucus filter out harmful particles and
microorganisms.
The flow of air from outside of the body to the lungs begins with the nose, which
is divided into the left and right nasal passages. The nasal passages are lined with a
membrane composed primarily of one layer of flat, closely packed cells called epithelial
cells. Each epithelial cell is densely fringed with thousands of microscopic cilia,
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fingerlike extensions of the cells. Interspersed among the epithelial cells are goblet
cells, specialized cells that produce mucus, a sticky, thick, moist fluid that coats the
epithelial cells and the cilia. Numerous tiny blood vessels called capillaries lie just under
the mucous membrane, near the surface of the nasal passages. While transporting air
to the pharynx, the nasal passages play two critical roles: they filter the air to remove
potentially disease-causing particles; and they moisten and warm the air to protect the
structures in the respiratory system.
Filtering prevents airborne bacteria, viruses, other potentially disease-causing
substances from entering the lungs, where they may cause infection. Filtering also
eliminates smog and dust particles, which may clog the narrow air passages in the
smallest bronchioles. Coarse hairs found just inside the nostrils of the nose trap
airborne particles as they are inhaled. The particles drop down onto the mucous
membrane lining the nasal passages. The cilia embedded in the mucous membrane
wave constantly, creating a current of mucus that propels the particles out of the nose
or downward to the pharynx. In the pharynx, the mucus is swallowed and passed to the
stomach, where the particles are destroyed by stomach acid. If more particles are in the
nasal passages than the cilia can handle, the particles build up on the mucus and
irritate the membrane beneath it. This irritation triggers a reflex that produces a sneeze
to get rid of the polluted air.
The nasal passages also moisten and warm air to prevent it from damaging the
delicate membranes of the lung. The mucous membranes of the nasal passages
release water vapor, which moistens the air as it passes over the membranes. As air
moves over the extensive capillaries in the nasal passages, it is warmed by the blood in
the capillaries. If the nose is blocked or “stuffy” due to a cold or allergies, a person is
forced to breathe through the mouth. This can be potentially harmful to the respiratory
system membranes, since the mouth does not filter, warm, or moisten air.
In addition to their role in the respiratory system, the nasal passages house cells
called olfactory receptors, which are involved in the sense of smell. When chemicals
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enter the nasal passages, they contact the olfactory receptors. This triggers the
receptors to send a signal to the brain, which creates the perception of smell.
PHARYNX
Air leaves the nasal passages and flows to the pharynx, a short, funnel-shaped
tube about 13 cm (5 in) long that transports air to the larynx. Like the nasal passages,
the pharynx is lined with a protective mucous membrane and ciliated cells that remove
impurities from the air. In addition to serving as an air passage, the pharynx houses the
tonsils, lymphatic tissues that contain white blood cells. The white blood cells attack any
disease-causing organisms that escape the hairs, cilia, and mucus of the nasal
passages and pharynx. The tonsils are strategically located to prevent these organisms
from moving further into the body. One tonsil, called the adenoids, is found high in the
rear wall of the pharynx. A pair of tonsils, the palatine tonsils, is located at the back of
the pharynx on either side of the tongue. Another pair, the lingual tonsils, is found deep
in the pharynx at the base of the tongue. In their battles with disease-causing
organisms, the tonsils sometimes become swollen with infection. When the adenoids
are swollen, they block the flow of air from the nasal passages to the pharynx, and a
person must breathe through the mouth.
LARYNX
Air moves from the pharynx to the larynx, a structure about 5 cm (2 in) long
located approximately in the middle of the neck. Several layers of cartilage, a tough and
flexible tissue, comprise most of the larynx. A protrusion in the cartilage called the
Adam’s apple sometimes enlarges in males during puberty, creating a prominent bulge
visible on the neck.
While the primary role of the larynx is to transport air to the trachea, it also serves
other functions. It plays a primary role in producing sound; it prevents food and fluid
from entering the air passage to cause choking; and its mucous membranes and cilia-
bearing cells help filter air. The cilia in the larynx waft airborne particles up toward the
pharynx to be swallowed.
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Food and fluids from the pharynx usually are prevented from entering the larynx
by the epiglottis, a thin, leaflike tissue. The “stem” of the leaf attaches to the front and
top of the larynx. When a person is breathing, the epiglottis is held in a vertical position,
like an open trap door. When a person swallows, however, a reflex causes the larynx
and the epiglottis to move toward each other, forming a protective seal, and food and
fluids are routed to the esophagus. If a person is eating or drinking too rapidly, or laughs
while swallowing, the swallowing reflex may not work, and food or fluid can enter the
larynx. Food, fluid, or other substances in the larynx initiate a cough reflex as the body
attempts to clear the larynx of the obstruction. If the cough reflex does not work, a
person can choke, a life-threatening situation. The Heimlich maneuver is a technique
used to clear a blocked larynx (see First Aid). A surgical procedure called a tracheotomy
is used to bypass the larynx and get air to the trachea in extreme cases of choking.
TRACHEA, BRONCHI, BRONCHIOLES
Air passes from the larynx into the trachea, a tube about 12 to 15 cm (about 5 to
6 in) long located just below the larynx. The trachea is formed of 15 to 20 C-shaped
rings of cartilage. The sturdy cartilage rings hold the trachea open, enabling air to pass
freely at all times. The open part of the C-shaped cartilage lies at the back of the
trachea, and the ends of the “C” are connected by muscle tissue.
The base of the trachea is located a little below where the neck meets the trunk
of the body. Here the trachea branches into two tubes, the left and right bronchi, which
deliver air to the left and right lungs, respectively. Within the lungs, the bronchi branch
into smaller tubes called bronchioles. The trachea, bronchi, and the first few bronchioles
contribute to the cleansing function of the respiratory system, for they, too, are lined with
mucous membranes and ciliated cells that move mucus upward to the pharynx.
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Human Lungs
In humans the lungs occupy a large portion of the chest cavity from the
collarbone down to the diaphragm. The right lung is divided into three sections, or lobes.
The left lung, with a cleft to accommodate the heart, has only two lobes. The two
branches of the trachea, called bronchi, subdivide within the lobes into smaller and
smaller air vessels known as bronchioles. Bronchioles terminate in alveoli, tiny air sacs
surrounded by capillaries. When the alveoli inflate with inhaled air, oxygen diffuses into
the blood in the capillaries to be pumped by the heart to the tissues of the body. At the
same time carbon dioxide diffuses out of the blood into the lungs, where it is exhaled.
The bronchioles divide many more times in the lungs to create an impressive tree
with smaller and smaller branches, some no larger than 0.5 mm (0.02 in) in diameter.
These branches dead-end into tiny air sacs called alveoli. The alveoli deliver oxygen to
the circulatory system and remove carbon dioxide. Interspersed among the alveoli are
numerous macrophages, large white blood cells that patrol the alveoli and remove
foreign substances that have not been filtered out earlier. The macrophages are the last
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line of defense of the respiratory system; their presence helps ensure that the alveoli
are protected from infection so that they can carry out their vital role.
Alveoli
A scanning electron micrograph reveals the tiny sacs known as alveoli within a
section of human lung tissue. Human beings have a thin layer of about 700 million
alveoli within their lungs. This layer is crucial in the process called respiration,
exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide with the surrounding blood capillaries.
CNRI/Photo Researchers, Inc.
The alveoli number about 150 million per lung and comprise most of the lung
tissue. Alveoli resemble tiny, collapsed balloons with thin elastic walls that expand as air
flows into them and collapse when the air is exhaled. Alveoli are arranged in grapelike
clusters, and each cluster is surrounded by a dense hairnet of tiny, thin-walled
capillaries. The alveoli and capillaries are arranged in such a way that air in the wall of
the alveoli is only about 0.1 to 0.2 microns from the blood in the capillary. Since the
concentration of oxygen is much higher in the alveoli than in the capillaries, the oxygen
diffuses from the alveoli to the capillaries. The oxygen flows through the capillaries to
larger vessels, which carry the oxygenated blood to the heart, where it is pumped to the
rest of the body.
Carbon dioxide that has been dumped into the bloodstream as a waste product
from cells throughout the body flows through the bloodstream to the heart, and then to
the alveolar capillaries. The concentration of carbon dioxide in the capillaries is much
higher than in the alveoli, causing carbon dioxide to diffuse into the alveoli. Exhalation
forces the carbon dioxide back through the respiratory passages and then to the outside
of the body.
24 | P a g e
REGULATION
Diaphragm and Respiration
As the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, the pectoralis minor and
intercostal muscles pull the rib cage outward. The chest cavity expands, and air rushes
into the lungs through the trachea to fill the resulting vacuum. When the diaphragm
relaxes to its normal, upwardly curving position, the lungs contract, and
The flow of air in and out of the lungs is controlled by the nervous system, which
ensures that humans breathe in a regular pattern and at a regular rate. Breathing is
carried out day and night by an unconscious process. It begins with a cluster of nerve
cells in the brain stem called the respiratory center. These cells send simultaneous
signals to the diaphragm and rib muscles, the muscles involved in inhalation. The
diaphragm is a large, dome-shaped muscle that lies just under the lungs. When the
diaphragm is stimulated by a nervous impulse, it flattens. The downward movement of
the diaphragm expands the volume of the cavity that contains the lungs, the thoracic
cavity. When the rib muscles are stimulated, they also contract, pulling the rib cage up
and out like the handle of a pail. This movement also expands the thoracic cavity. The
increased volume of the thoracic cavity causes air to rush into the lungs. The nervous
stimulation is brief, and when it ceases, the diaphragm and rib muscles relax and
25 | P a g e
exhalation occurs. Under normal conditions, the respiratory center emits signals 12 to
20 times a minute, causing a person to take 12 to 20 breaths a minute. Newborns
breathe at a faster rate, about 30 to 50 breaths a minute.
The rhythm set by the respiratory center can be altered by conscious control. The
breathing pattern changes when a person sings or whistles, for example. A person also
can alter the breathing pattern by holding the breath. The cerebral cortex, the part of the
brain involved in thinking, can send signals to the diaphragm and rib muscles that
temporarily override the signals from the respiratory center. The ability to hold one’s
breath has survival value. If a person encounters noxious fumes, for example, it is
possible to avoid inhaling the fumes.
A person cannot hold the breath indefinitely, however. If exhalation does not
occur, carbon dioxide accumulates in the blood, which, in turn, causes the blood to
become more acidic. Increased acidity interferes with the action of enzymes, the
specialized proteins that participate in virtually all biochemical reaction in the body. To
prevent the blood from becoming too acidic, the blood is monitored by special receptors
called chemoreceptors, located in the brainstem and in the blood vessels of the neck. If
acid builds up in the blood, the chemoreceptors send nervous signals to the respiratory
center, which overrides the signals from the cerebral cortex and causes a person to
exhale and then resume breathing. These exhalations expel the carbon dioxide and
bring the blood acid level back to normal.
A person can exert some degree of control over the amount of air inhaled, with
some limitations. To prevent the lungs from bursting from overinflation, specialized cells
in the lungs called stretch receptors measure the volume of air in the lungs. When the
volume reaches an unsafe threshold, the stretch receptors send signals to the
respiratory center, which shuts down the muscles of inhalation and halts the intake of
air.
26 | P a g e
IMMUNITY
Immunology is the study of our protection from foreign macromolecules or
invading organisms and our responses to them. These invaders include viruses,
bacteria, protozoa or even larger parasites. In addition, we develop immune responses
against our own proteins (and other molecules) in autoimmunity and against our own
aberrant cells in tumor immunity (Tortora, et al., 2006).
Our first line of defense against foreign organisms are barrier tissues such as the
skin that stop the entry of organism into our bodies. If, however, these barrier layers are
penetrated, the body contains cells that respond rapidly to the presence of the invader.
These cells include macrophages and neutrophils that engulf foreign organisms and kill
them without the need for antibodies. Immediate challenge also comes from soluble
molecules that deprive the invading organism of essential nutrients (such as iron) and
from certain molecules that are found on the surfaces of epithelia, in secretions (such as
tears and saliva) and in the blood stream. This form of immunity is the innate or non-
specific immune system that is continually ready to respond to invasion.
A second line of defense is the specific or adaptive immune system which may
take days to respond to a primary invasion (that is infection by an organism that has not
hitherto been seen). In the specific immune system, we see the production of antibodies
(soluble proteins that bind to foreign antigens) and cell-mediated responses in which
specific cells recognize foreign pathogens and destroy them. In the case of viruses or
tumors, this response is also vital to the recognition and destruction of virally-infected or
tumorigenic cells. The response to a second round of infection is often more rapid than
to the primary infection because of the activation of memory B and T cells. We shall see
how cells of the immune system interact with one another by a variety of signal
molecules so that a coordinated response may be mounted. These signals may be
proteins such as lymphokines which are produced by cells of the lymphoid system,
cytokines and chemokines that are produced by other cells in an immune response,
and which stimulate cells of the immune system. The immune system is composed of
two major subdivisions, the innate or nonspecific immune system and the adaptive or
specific immune system. The innate immune system is our first line of defense against
invading organisms while the adaptive immune system acts as a second line of defense
27 | P a g e
and also affords protection against re-exposure to the same pathogen. Each of the
major subdivisions of the immune system has both cellular and humoral components by
which they carry out their protective function. In addition, the innate immune system
also has anatomical features that function as barriers to infection. Although these two
arms of the immune system have distinct functions, there is interplay between these
systems (i.e., components of the innate immune system influence the adaptive immune
system and vice versa).
Although the innate and adaptive immune systems both function to protect
against invading organisms, they differ in a number of ways. The adaptive immune
system requires some time to react to an invading organism, whereas the innate
immune system includes defenses that, for the most part, are constitutively present and
ready to be mobilized upon infection. Second, the adaptive immune system is antigen
specific and reacts only with the organism that induced the response. In contrast, the
innate system is not antigen specific and reacts equally well to a variety of organisms.
Finally, the adaptive immune system demonstrates immunological memory. It
“remembers” that it has encountered an invading organism and reacts more rapidly on
subsequent exposure to the same organism. In contrast, the innate immune system
does not demonstrate immunological memory.
All cells of the immune system have their origin in the bone marrow and they
include myeloid (neutrophils, basophils, eosinpophils, macrophages and dendritic cells)
and lymphoid (B lymphocyte, T lymphocyte and Natural Killer) cells , which differentiate
along distinct pathways. The myeloid progenitor (stem) cell in the bone marrow gives
rise to erythrocytes, platelets, neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages and dendritic cells
whereas the lymphoid progenitor (stem) cell gives rise to the NK, T cells and B cells.
For T cell development the precursor T cells must migrate to the thymus where they
undergo differentiation into two distinct types of T cells, the CD4+ T helper cell and the
CD8+ pre-cytotoxic T cell. Two types of T helper cells are produced in the thymus the
TH1 cells, which help the CD8+ pre-cytotoxic cells to differentiate into cytotoxic T cells,
and TH2 cells, which help B cells, differentiate into plasma cells, which secrete
antibodies.
28 | P a g e
The main function of the immune system is self/non-self discrimination. This
ability to distinguish between self and non-self is necessary to protect the organism from
invading pathogens and to eliminate modified or altered cells (e.g. malignant cells).
Since pathogens may replicate intracellularly (viruses and some bacteria and parasites)
or extracellularly (most bacteria, fungi and parasites), different components of the
immune system have evolved to protect against these different types of pathogens. It is
important to remember that infection with an organism does not necessarily mean
diseases, since the immune system in most cases will be able to eliminate the infection
before disease occurs. Disease occurs only when the bolus of infection is high, when
the virulence of the invading organism is great or when immunity is compromised.
Although the immune system, for the most part, has beneficial effects, there can be
detrimental effects as well. During inflammation, which is the response to an invading
organism, there may be local discomfort and collateral damage to healthy tissue as a
result of the toxic products produced by the immune response. In addition, in some
cases the immune response can be directed toward self tissues resulting in
autoimmune disease.
NON-SPECIFIC IMMUNITY
The elements of the non-specific (innate) immune system include anatomical barriers,
secretory molecules and cellular components. Among the mechanical anatomical barriers are
the skin and internal epithelial layers, the movement of the intestines and the oscillation of
broncho-pulmonary cilia. Associated with these protective surfaces are chemical and biological
agents.
A. Anatomical barriers to infections
1. Mechanical factors
The epithelial surfaces form a physical barrier that is very impermeable to most infectious
agents thus, the skin acts as our first line of defense against invading organisms. The
desquamation of skin epithelium also helps remove bacteria and other infectious agents that
have adhered to the epithelial surfaces. Movement due to cilia or peristalsis helps to keep air
29 | P a g e
passages and the gastrointestinal tract free from microorganisms. The flushing action of tears
and saliva helps prevent infection of the eyes and mouth. The trapping effect of mucus that lines
the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract helps protect the lungs and digestive systems from
infection.
2. Chemical factors
Fatty acids in sweat inhibit the growth of bacteria. Lysozyme and phospholipase found in tears,
saliva and nasal secretions can breakdown the cell wall of bacteria and destabilize bacterial
membranes. The low pH of sweat and gastric secretions prevents growth of bacteria. Defensins
found in the lung and gastrointestinal tract have antimicrobial activity. Surfactants in the lung act
as opsonins (substances that promote phagocytosis of particles by phagocytic cells).
3. Biological factors
The normal flora of the skin and in the gastrointestinal tract can prevent the colonization
of pathogenic bacteria by secreting toxic substances or by competing with pathogenic bacteria
for nutrients or attachment to cell surfaces.
B. Humoral barriers to infection
The anatomical barriers are very effective in preventing colonization of tissues by
microorganisms. However, when there is damage to tissues the anatomical barriers are
breached and infection may occur. Once infectious agents have penetrated tissues, another
innate defense mechanism comes into play, namely acute inflammation. Humoral factors play
an important role in inflammation, which is characterized by edema and the recruitment of
phagocytic cells. These humoral factors are found in serum or they are formed at the site of
infection.
The complement system is the major humoral non-specific defense mechanism. Once
activated complement can lead to increased vascular permeability, recruitment of
phagocytic cells, and lysis and opsonization of bacteria. Coagulation system, depending
30 | P a g e
on the severity of the tissue injury, the coagulation system may or may not be activated.
Some products of the coagulation system can contribute to the non-specific defenses
because of their ability to increase vascular permeability and act as chemotactic agents
for phagocytic cells. In addition, some of the products of the coagulation system are
directly antimicrobial. For example, beta-lysin, a protein produced by platelets during
coagulation can lyse many Gram positive bacteria by acting as a cationic detergent.
Lactoferrin and transferrin binds with iron, an essential nutrient for bacteria, these
proteins limit bacterial growth. Interferons are proteins that can limit virus replication in
cells. Lysozyme breaks down the cell wall of bacteria. Interleukin-1 induces fever and
the production of acute phase proteins, some of which are antimicrobial because they
can opsonize bacteria.
Cellular barriers to infection
Part of the inflammatory response is the recruitment of polymorphonuclear
eosinophiles and macrophages to sites of infection. These cells are the main line of
defense in the non-specific immune system.
Polymorphonuclear cells are recruited to the site of infection where they phagocytose
invading organisms and kill them intracellularly. In addition, PMNs contribute to collateral tissue
damage that occurs during inflammation.
Tissue macrophages and newly recruited monocytes, which differentiate into
macrophages, also function in phagocytosis and intracellular killing of microorganisms. In
addition, macrophages are capable of extracellular killing of infected or altered self target cells.
Furthermore, macrophages contribute to tissue repair and act as antigen-presenting cells, which
are required for the induction of specific immune responses.
Natural killer (NK) and lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells can nonspecifically kill virus infected and tumor cells. These cells are not part of the inflammatory response but they are important in nonspecific immunity to viral infections and tumor surveillance. Eosinophils have proteins in granules that are effective in killing certain parasites.
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PATIENT’S ILLNESS PATHOPHYSIOLOGY BOOK-BASED
32 | P a g e
NON-MODIFIABLE
Age Genetic Considerations
MODIFIABLE FACTORS
COMMUNITY ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA COMMON COLDS AND OTHER VIRAL INFECTIONS/ INFLUENZA
ABDOMINAL SURGERY IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE
THERAPY SICKLE CELL DISEASE MALNUTRITION ASPIRATION
Invasion of bacteria or virus in the body
Presence of bacteria or virus on Lower Respiratory Tract
Expelling offending microorganism at Upper Respiratory Tract (mucus production, ciliary expulsion, inflammation, bronchial
constriction)
Pulmonary inflammatory response to the offending
microorganism
COUGH
CytokinesInflammatory
Response
Interleukin 1
Acts on the brain to increase
temperature
TNF-alpha
33 | P a g e
Increase WBC
Inflammatory response: Release of vasoactive substance
Release of endothelial binding of neutrophils &
macrophages
Bradykinin
Phagocytic effect on
microorganism
Emigration of neutrophils,
lymphocytes and macrophages into the
alveoli
Continuing Inflammation
Hyperthermia
VasoconstrictionAntigen-antibody
response on microorganism
Increase Mucus Production
Pulmonary Congestion
Abnormal Breath Sounds
DOB
Phagocytic effect on
microorganism
Nasal /Oral Secretions
Mechanism to expel foreign object in body
Presence of debris on
respiratory tract
consolidated exudates in alveoli
goes into enzymatic digestion
Pleuritic Chest Pain
HEMOPTYSIS
A. Synthesis of the disease
1) Definition of the disease (Book-based)
Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the interstitial lung tissue in which fluid and blood
cells escape into the alveoli. More than 3 million people in the United States are diagnosed each
year with pneumonia. The disease process begins with an infection in the alveolar spaces. As the
organism multiplies, the alveolar spaces fill with fluid, white blood cells, and cellular debris from
phagocytosis of the infectious agent. The infection spreads from the alveolus and can involve the
distal airways (bronchopneumonia), part of a lobe (lobular pneumonia), or an entire lung (lobar
pneumonia).
The infection is also classified as one of three types—primary, secondary , or aspiration
pneumonia. Primary results directly from inhalation or aspiration of a pathogen such as a bacteria or
virus; including pneumococcal and viral pneumonia. Secondary pneumonia may follow initial lung
damage from a noxious chemical or other insult (superinfection) or may result from hematogenous
spread of bacteria from a distant area. Aspiration pneumonia results from inhalation of foreighn
matter, such as vomitus or food particles, into the bronchi, which are common in patients receiving
nasogastric tube feedings, and impaired gag reflex, poor oral hygiene, or a decreased level of
consciousness.
Community-acquired pneumonia is caused by bacteria that are divided into two groups typical
and atypical. Organisms that cause typical pneumonia include Streptococcus pneumoniae
34 | P a g e
(pneumococcus) and Haemophilus and Staphylococcus species. Organisms that cause atypical
pneumonia include Legionella, Mycoplasma, and Chlamydia species.
The inflammatory process causes the lung tissue to stiffen, thus resulting in a decrease in the
work of breathing. The fluid-filled alveoli cause a physiological shunt, and venous blood passes
unventilated portions of lung tissue and returns to the left atrium unoxygenated. As the arterial
oxygen tension falls, the patient begins to exhibit the signs and symptoms of hypoxemia. In addition
to hypoxemia, pneumonia can lead to respiratory failure and septic shock. Infection may spread via
the bloodstream and cause endocarditis, pericarditis, meningitis, or bacteremia.
Diagnostic test performed to diagnose pneumonia include X-ray, sputum exam and culture,
complete blood count (CBC’s), Arterial blood gas (ABG), bronchoscopy and pulse oximetry. Chest X-
rays disclose infiltrates, confirming the diagnosis. Sputum specimen for Gram stain and culture and
sensitivity tests shows acute inflammatory cells. White blood cell count indicates leukocytosis in
bacterial pneumonia and a normal or low count in viral or mycoplasmal pneumonia. Blood cultures
reflect bacteremia and help to determine the causative organism. Arterial blood gas (ABG) levels
vary depending on the severity of pneumonia and underlying lung state. Bronchoscopy or
transtracheal aspiration allows the collection of material for culture. Pleural fluid culture may also be
obtained. Pulse oximetry may show a reduced level of arterial oxygen saturation.
Treatment for pneumonia is antimicrobial therapy based on the causative agent. Therapy
should be reevaluated early in the course of treatment. Supportive measures include humidified
oxygen therapy for hypoxia, bronchodilator therapy, antitussives, mechanical ventilation for
35 | P a g e
respiratory failure, a high-calorie diet and adequate fluid intake, bed rest, and an analgesic to relieve
pleuritic chest pain. A patient with severe pneumonia or mechanical ventilation may need positive
end expiratory pressure to maintain adequate oxygenation.
Without proper treatment, pneumonia can lead to life-threatening complications such as septic
shock, hypoxemia, and respiratory failure. The infection can also spread within the patient’s lungs,
causing empyema or lung abscess. It also may spread by way of the blood stream or by cross-
contamination to other parts of the body, causing bacteremia, endocarditis, pericarditis, or
meningitis (Kumar, et al., 2005).
2) Modifiable/ Non-modifiable Factors (Book based)
MODIFIABLE FACTORS
AGE
Children and young adults up to the age 30 are at risk for several forms of viral pneumonia,
including mycoplasma pneumonia, adenovirus pneumonia, rubeola pneumonia, and respiratory
syncytial virus pneumonia. Staphylococcal pneumonia tends to strike those who are debilitated or
who have a history of influenza or intravenous (IV) drug abuse. There are no known racial or ethnic
considerations (Kumar, et al., 2005).
36 | P a g e
GENETIC CONSIDERATIONS
Heritable immune responses could be protective or increase susceptibility (Kumar, et al.,
2005).
MODIFIABLE FACTORS
COMMUNITY ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA
This term is used to describe infections from organisms found in the community prior to
hospitalization, or diagnosed within 48 hours after admission to the hospital, or who has not resided
in a long-term care facility for 14 days or more before admission. The most common cause is
Streptococcus pneumonia (Black, et al., 2009).
COMMON COLDS AND OTHER VIRAL INFECTIONS
Common cold is a general term for coryza or inflammation of the respiratory mucous
membranes from the nasal mucosa to the nasal sinuses, throat, larynx, trachea and bronchi (Kumar,
et al., 2005).
INFLUENZA
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An acute contagious respiratory infection marked by fevers, chills, muscle aches, headache,
prostration, runny nose, watering eyes, cough, and sore throat caused by either influenza A, B or C
(Kumar, et al., 2005)
ABDOMINAL SURGERY
This deals with the manual and operative procedures form correction of deformities and
defects, repair of injuries, and diagnosis and cure of certain diseases in the abdominal region
(Kumar, et al., 2005).
IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE THERAPY
Is the treatment with drugs such as cyclosporine or mycophenolate that impairs immune
responses such as in Pneumocystis carinii (Kumar, et al., 2005).
SICKLE CELL DISEASE
These are diseases characterized by an abnormal erythrocytes that are shaped like a sickle.
MALNUTRITION
These are any disease-promoting condition resulting from either an inadequate or excessive
exposure to nutrients caused by inadequate calorie consumption, intake of essential micronutrients,
improper absorption and distribution of foods within the body, overeating and intoxication by
nutrient excess (Kumar, et al., 2005).
38 | P a g e
ASPIRATION
Drawing in foreign bodies via the nose, throat or lungs on inspiration such as vomitus.
3) Signs and Symptoms with Rationale (Book-based)
FATIGUE
Frequent periods of dyspnea, which causes a person to have aversion to food, and the
infection, which causes an increase in the basal metabolic rate in order to sustain the immunologic
resistance, increases the demand for oxygen, which would be inadequate for a person who has
impaired gas exchange due to excessive lung consolidation of exudates in the lung alveoli, impairing
gas exchange (Black, et al., 2009).
CYANOSIS
Cyanosis is a blue, gray, slate or dark purple discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes
caused by deoxygenated or reduced hemoglobin in the blood due to impaired gas exchange brought
by the consolidation of the lungs (Black, et al., 2009).
TACHYPNEA
Tachypnea is an abnormally fast respiration brought about by increase in body temperature
and to compensate for low oxygen concentrations. Any inflammatory response such as fever
39 | P a g e
increases respiration to meet the increase in metabolic requirement to elicit inflammation or to
increase cellular resistance to an infection in cases such as pneumonia. Prolonged congestion of
exudates in the parenchyma may interfere with the gas exchange causing metabolic acidosis which
the body compensates by increasing respiration (Berman, et al., 2007)
PLEURITIC CHEST PAIN
Acute pain related to inflammatory or irritation of the parietal pleura when fibrinosuppurative
pleuritis is present, occurring during the early stages of consolidation that extends to the surface
pleural tissues (Kumar, et al., 2005).
COUGH
A forceful, sometimes violent expiratory effort preceded by a preliminary inspiration.
Pulmonary cough is often deep and may be hacking and irritating in the early stages of lung
infections; in later stages, it is frequent and productive (Venes, 2009).
NASAL SECRETIONS, SPUTUM PRODUCTION
Mucus expelled from the lung by coughing which may contain a variety of materials from the
respiratory tract, including in some instance cellular debris, mucus, blood, pus, caseous material,
and/ or microorganisms. Creamy yellow sputum suggests staphylococcal pneumonia, green sputum
40 | P a g e
suggests Pseudomonas organisms and currant jelly-like sputum indicates Klebsiella (clear sputum
means no infective causes) (Venes, 2009).
HEMOPTYSIS
Hemoptysis is the expectoration of blood that arises from the larynx, trachea, bronchi, or
lungs. This symptom may occur during the last stage of pneumonia, resolution, in which enzymes
are produced in the alveoli to dissolve consolidated exudates (Venes, 2009).
ABNORMAL BREATH SOUNDS
Breath sounds due to a disease process altering the airway or airflow dynamics. Alterations in
breath sounds may be due to vibration of solid structures, airflow through narrowed airways, and
abrupt changes in airway pressure. The following are common adventitious sounds found in
pneumonia cases:
Crackles/Rales
A discontinuous adventitious lung sound heard on auscultation of the chest, produced by air passing
over retained airway secretions or the sudden opening of collapsed airways, heard on inspiration or
expiration
41 | P a g e
Rhonchus
A low-pitched wheezing, snoring or squeaking sound heard during auscultation of the chest of a
person with partial airway obstruction caused by occlusion of respiratory passage by mucus or other
secretions in the airway (Venes, 2009).
HYPERTHERMIA
Hyperthermia or fever is an abnormal elevation in temperature above the usual range, usually one to
four degrees Celsius. Fever caused by infection is brought about by the release of cytokines such as IL-1,
interleukin 1, and TNF, tumor necrotizing factor, (called endogenous pyrogens) by stimulated leukocytes
that helps produce prostaglandins that act upon the hypothalamus to reset the temperature set point at a
higher level (Kumar, et al., 2005).
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY PATIENT CENTERED
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NON-MODIFIABLE
Age Genetic Considerations
MODIFIABLE FACTORS
COMMUNITY ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA COMMON COLDS AND OTHER VIRAL INFECTIONS/ INFLUENZA
ABDOMINAL SURGERY IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE
THERAPY SICKLE CELL DISEASE MALNUTRITION ASPIRATION
43 | P a g e
Invasion of bacteria or virus in the body
Presence of bacteria or virus on Lower Respiratory
Expelling offending microorganism at Upper Respiratory Tract (mucus production, ciliary expulsion, inflammation, bronchial
constriction)
Pulmonary inflammatory response to the offending
microorganism
COUGHAug 18-21
CytokinesInflammatory
Response
Interleukin 1
Acts on the brain to increase
temperatureInflammatory
response: Release of vasoactive substance
Release of endothelial binding of neutrophils &
macrophagesTNF-alpha
VasoconstrictionAntigen-antibody
response on microorganism
44 | P a g e
Increase WBCAug 19Bradykinin
Phagocytic effect on
microorganism
Emigration of neutrophils,
lymphocytes and macrophages into the
alveoli
HyperthermiaAug 18-20
Increase Mucus Production
Pulmonary Congestion
Abnormal Breath SoundsCrackles
Aug 18-20
DOBAug 18-20
Nasal /Oral SecretionsAug 18-20
Mechanism to expel foreign object in body
Presence of debris on
respiratory tract
b. Synthesis of the Disease (Patient-centered)
Upon admission in the hospital on August 18, 2009, Ashleyto showed
possible manifestations of an infection, having signs and symptoms of cough
with fever. During the medical history interview, the researchers were told
by the patient’s mother, Mrs. Montemayor that the patient was previously
hospitalized for difficulty of breathing and that his other siblings were also ill
and had recovered, having flu-like symptoms. Further physical assessment
by the health care team showed crackles, or rales, sounds, auscultated on
bilateral lung fields (BLF) with accompanying productive cough on August 18,
19, 20.
Diagnostic tests that can be performed to diagnose pneumonia include
X-ray, sputum exam and culture, complete blood count (CBC’s), and Arterial
blood gas (ABG). Bacillio’s chart did not contain any documentation on the
diagnostic tests made. If there was one performed, a chest X-rays would
show infiltrates, confirming the diagnosis. Sputum would also be taken,
cultured and examined to identify the exact microorganism responsible for
the infection.
Community-acquired pneumonia is caused by bacteria that are divided
into two groups typical and atypical. Organisms that cause typical
pneumonia include Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) and
Haemophilus and Staphylococcus species. The treatment for community-
acquired pneumonia is antimicrobial therapy based on the causative agent.
Therapy should be reevaluated early in the course of treatment. Upon
admission, on August 19, 2009 Ashleyto was started with Cefuroxime an
endocarditis prophylaxis and a broad spectrum bactericidal against certain
bacteria that causes pneumonia, and Hydrocortisone.
Supportive measures used in the patient’s treatment include
bronchodilator therapy, antitussives, a high-calorie diet and adequate fluid
intake, bed rest, and an analgesic to relieve chest pain. Bronchodilator
therapy was started on August 18, 2009, using nebulization of salbutamol
(Ventolin).
45 | P a g e
c. Modifiable/ Non-modifiable Factors
MODIFIABLE FACTORS
AGE
Children and young adults up to the age 30 are at risk for several
forms of viral pneumonia, including mycoplasma pneumonia, adenovirus
pneumonia, rubeola pneumonia, and respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia.
Staphylococcal pneumonia tends to strike those who are debilitated or who
have a history of influenza or intravenous (IV) drug abuse. There are no
known racial or ethnic considerations (Kumar, et al., 2005).
MODIFIABLE FACTORS
MALNUTRITION
These are any disease-promoting condition resulting from either an
inadequate or excessive exposure to nutrients caused by inadequate calorie
consumption, intake of essential micronutrients, improper absorption and
distribution of foods within the body, overeating and intoxication by nutrient
excess (Kumar, et al., 2005).
COMMON COLDS AND OTHER VIRAL INFECTIONS
Common cold is a general term for coryza or inflammation of the
respiratory mucous membranes from the nasal mucosa to the nasal sinuses,
throat, larynx, trachea and bronchi (Kumar, et al., 2005).
NON-MODIFIABLE FACTORS
46 | P a g e
COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA
This term is used to describe infections from organisms found in the
community prior to hospitalization, or diagnosed within 48 hours after
admission to the hospital, or who has not resided in a long-term care facility
for 14 days or more before admission. The most common cause is
Streptococcus pneumonia (Black, et al., 2009).
d. Signs and symptoms
TACHYPNEA
Tachypnea is an abnormally fast respiration brought about by increase
in body temperature and to compensate for low oxygen concentrations. Any
inflammatory response such as fever increases respiration to meet the
increase in metabolic requirement to elicit inflammation or to increase
cellular resistance to an infection in cases such as pneumonia. Prolonged
congestion of exudates in the parenchyma may interfere with the gas
exchange causing metabolic acidosis which the body compensates by
increasing respiration (Berman, et al., 2007)
COUGH
A forceful, sometimes violent expiratory effort preceded by a
preliminary inspiration. Pulmonary cough is often deep and may be hacking
and irritating in the early stages of lung infections; in later stages, it is
frequent and productive (Venes, 2009).
NASAL SECRETIONS, SPUTUM PRODUCTION
Mucus expelled from the lung by coughing which may contain a variety
of materials from the respiratory tract, including in some instance cellular
debris, mucus, blood, pus, caseous material, and/ or microorganisms.
Creamy yellow sputum suggests staphylococcal pneumonia, green sputum
47 | P a g e
suggests Pseudomonas organisms and currant jelly-like sputum indicates
Klebsiella (clear sputum means no infective causes) (Venes, 2009).
ABNORMAL BREATH SOUNDS
Breath sounds due to a disease process altering the airway or airflow
dynamics. Alterations in breath sounds may be due to vibration of solid
structures, airflow through narrowed airways, and abrupt changes in airway
pressure. The following are common adventitious sounds found in
pneumonia cases:
Crackles
A discontinuous adventitious lung sound heard on auscultation of the
chest, produced by air passing over retained airway secretions or the sudden
opening of collapsed airways, heard on inspiration or expiration
HYPERTHERMIA
Hyperthermia or fever is an abnormal elevation in temperature above
the usual range, usually one to four degrees Celsius. Fever caused by
infection is brought about by the release of cytokines such as IL-1,
interleukin 1, and TNF, tumor necrotizing factor, (called endogenous
pyrogens) by stimulated leukocytes that helps produce prostaglandins that
act upon the hypothalamus to reset the temperature set point at a higher
level (Kumar, et al., 2005).
Health Promotion and Preventive Aspects of the Disease
Teach the patients the following to prevent pneumonia:
48 | P a g e
Urge bedridden and postoperative patients to perform deep-breathing and
coughing exercises frequently. Position such patients properly to promote full
aeration and drainage of secretion
Advise patients to avoid using antibiotics indiscriminately for minor infections.
Doing so could result in upper airway colonization with antibiotic-resistant
bacteria. If pneumonia develops, the organism that produce the pneumonia
may require treatment with more toxic antibiotics
Encourage the high-risk patient to ask his doctor about an annual flu
vaccination and the pneumococcal vaccination, which the patient would
receive only once.
Discuss ways to avoid spreading the infection to others. Remind the patient
to sneeze and cough into tissues and to dispose of the tissues in a waxed or
plastic bag. Advise him to wash his hands thoroughly after handling
contaminated tissues.
Patient teaching
Explain all procedures (especially intubation and suctioning) to the patient
and family members
Emphasize the importance of adequate rest to promote full recovery and
prevent a relapse. Explain that the physician will advise the patient when he
can resume full activity and return to work
Review the patient’s medication. Stress the need to take the entire course of
medication, even if he feels better, to prevent relapse
Teach the patient procedures to clear lung secretions, such as deep-
breathing and coughing exercises as well as home oxygen therapy. Explain
deep breathing and purse-lip breathing
Urge patient to drink 2 to 3 quart (2 to 3 L) of fluid a day to maintain adequate
hydration and keep mucus secretions thin for easier removal
Teach the patient and family about chest physiotherapy. Explain that postural
drainage, percussion and vibration help to mobilize and remove mucus from
the lungs
49 | P a g e
Urge the patient to avoid irritants that stimulate secretions, such as cigarette
smoke, dust, and significant environmental pollution. If necessary, refer him
to community programs or agencies that can help him stop smoking.
50 | P a g e
THE PATIENT AND HIS CARE
MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
a. IVF
MEDICAL
MANAGEMENT/
TREATMENT
DATE
ORDERED
GENERAL
DESCRIPTION
INDICATION/PURPOSE CLIENT’S RESPONSE
TO TREATMENT
D5IMB DO:
08-18-2009
Hypertonic solutions
greatly expand the
intracellular
compartment,
administer them by
IV pump and closely
monitor the patient
for circulatory
overload. Pull fluid
from intracellular
compartment.
For nutritional status and
electrolyte imbalance correction.
For prevention of edema
The patient did not
experience any
discomfort other than the
IV insertion and
medication
administration upon the
course of this IV therapy.
Noted no signs of edema
51 | P a g e
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES:
Before:
Check doctor’s order first
Explain the procedure and the need for IV infusion
Prepare necessary materials needed
Check IVF as prescribed
During:
Check the IV label.
Check for patency of the IV tubing
Check if the IV infusion is infusing well
Maintain aseptic technique
Always check for the level of the IV.
Regulate and monitor flow rate as ordered
After:
Check for the presence of air in the tubing.
Monitor for evidence of local IV complication such as pain, swelling and treatments.
Adjust rate of flow of fluids appropriate to the needs as prescribed.
Document what has been done
52 | P a g e
Medical
Management
Date Ordered/
Performed/
Changed
General Description Indication(s) or
Purpose
Client’s Response to the
Treatment
Nebulization DO: 08-18-09 A nebulizer is a device used to
change liquid medication to an
aerosol particulate form. The
aerosolized medication is
extremely beneficial when
inhaled and deposited in the
lungs.
It is indicated for
proper ventilation of
air with the process of
bronchodilation.
The client’s secretion was
loosened as evidenced by
client was able to
expectorate
secretion/sputum
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES:
Before:
o Verify the doctor’s order.
o Inform the patient’s SO about the procedure.
o Wash your hands prior to preparing each nebulizer treatment, and make sure the equipment is clean.
During:
o Hold the nebulizer in an upright position to prevent spoiling.
o Continue until the medicine is gone from the cup (about 5 minutes).
o Occasionally tapping the side of the nebulizer helps the solution drop to where it can be misted. Treatment is finished when
all the medication has been used from the container. The nebulizer will most likely begin sputtering when it is empty.
After:
o Document the time the procedure has done
53 | P a g e
b. Drugs
NAME OF DRUG
GENERIC NAME
BRAND NAME
DATE ORDERED
DATE
PERFORMED
DATE CHANGED
ROUTE OF ADMIN
DOSAGE AND
FREQUENCY OF
ADMIN
INDICATIONS OR
PURPOSES
(PT CENTERED)
CLIENT’S
RESPONSE
Cefuroxime
(Plerozef)
Salbutamol Neb
08-18-09
08-18-09
275mg IV q8
(-) ANST
Inhalation q8
For the treatment of
many different
types of bacterial
infections such as
bronchitis, sinusitis,
tonsillitis, ear
infections, skin
infections,
gonorrhea, and
urinary tract
infections.
Expectorant and
Bronchodilator
Reduces viscosity
the pt did not
encounter any side
effect of the drug
>the pt is able to
liquefy and cough
out secretions
54 | P a g e
Paracetamol
Hydrocortisone
Furosemide
08-18-09
08-19-09
08-20-09
115mg IV q4 PRN
for fever
110 mg IV now then
50 mg IV q8
10mg IV now then
OD x 2 doses
of secretions
prevent reversible
airway obstruction
Antipyretic
Treating severe
allergies, arthritis,
asthma, multiple
sclerosis, and skin
conditions. It works
by decreasing or
preventing tissues
from responding to
inflammation.
Treating fluid build-
up and swelling
caused by
congestive heart
failure, liver
cirrhosis, or kidney
The patient
temperature
decreased
the pt. did not experience any side effect of the drug.
the pt. did not manifest any side effects.
55 | P a g e
disease. It is also
used in combination
with other
medicines to treat
fluid build-up in the
lungs.
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES:
Cefuroxime, Hydrocortisone, Furosemide
Before:
Assess pt for s/sx of infection including characteristics of wounds, sputum, urine and stool.
Obtain C & S before beginning drug therapy to identify if correct tx has been initiated.
Identify urine output
Monitor bleeding and growth of infection.
During:
Give for 10 days to ensure organism death and prevent superinfection.
Give with food if needed for GI symptoms.
Give after C & S is completed.
After:
Teach pt’s SO to report sore throat, bruising, bleeding, and joint pain. It may indicate blood discarias.
Advise pt to contact prescriber if there is loose foul stool and furring of tongue occur.
Advise pt to notify prescriber if diarrhea with blood or pus occurs.
56 | P a g e
SALBUTAMOL
Before:
Explain to the patient and SO the reason why the drug was ordered.
Assess lung sounds, pulse and blood pressure before administration and during peak of medication. Note amount, color and
character of sputum produced.
Monitor pulmonary function tests before initiating therapy and periodically during therapy to determine effectiveness of
medication.
During:
Instruct the patient’ to Inhale this medication into the mouth and lungs using a special breathing device (nebulizer)
After:
Monitor the patient for any reactions.
Instruct patient’s SO to contact health care Professional immediately if shortness of breath is not relieved by medication or is
accompanied by diaphoresis, dizziness, palpitations or chest pain.
Instruct patient to prime unit with 4 sprays before using and to discard canister after 2000 sprays. Actuators should not be
change among products.
Advise patient’s SO to use albuterol first if using other inhalation medications and allow 5 min. to elapse before administering
other inhalant medications unless otherwise directed.
Advise patient’s SO to rinse mouth with water after each inhalation dose to minimize dry mouth.
C. Diet
57 | P a g e
TYPES OF DIET
DATE ORDEREDDATE STARTEDDATE CHANGED
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
INDICATION(S)/ PURPOSE(S)
SPECIFIC FOODS TAKEN
CLIENT’S RESPONSE AND/ OR REACTION TO
DIET
Regular Diet
DO: 8/18/09 A regular diet is a
diet that includes
a variety of foods.
A healthy, regular
diet includes
fruits, vegetables,
whole grains and
fat-free or low-fat
dairy foods. It also
includes lean
meats, poultry,
fish, beans, eggs
and nuts. A
healthy regular
diet is low in
unhealthy fats,
salt and added
sugar.
The patient take
foods as tolerated to
maintain
nourishment or to
suffice the nutritional
demand of the
patient and thus
providing sufficient
energy. The patient’s
healthy regular diet
reduces his risk of
acquiring any other
complications of his
illness,
Rice, soups,
crackers,
meats, fruits.
The patient takes
food he usually
eat and thus
gaining more
energy as
evidence by
doing passive
range of motion.
58 | P a g e
Nursing Responsibilities
Prior:
Check for the doctors order
Assess client’s need
Before prepare the appropriate diet for the patient be sure that proper hand washing is maintained
During:
Give feedings with strict aspiration precaution
After:
Burped after each feedings
Place the child on side-lying position after each feedings
Monitor if the feeding is well-tolerated
Note and document any untoward reaction.
D. Activity/Exercise
*** no activity or exercise was ordered for the patient
59 | P a g e
B. NURSING MANAGEMENT
Proble
m
Numbe
r
Nursing Problems
1Ineffective airway clearance related to increased sputum production in
response to respiratory infection
2Impaired gas exchange related to collection of mucus in airways
3 Acute pain related to respiratory distress and coughing
4 Risk for altered nutrition less than body requirements
5 Hyperthermia
60 | P a g e
Nursing Management
a. Nursing Care Plans
Problem #1: Ineffective airway clearance related to increased sputum production in response to respiratory infection
Assessment Nursing Diagnosis
Scientific Explanation
Objectives Interventions Rationale Evaluation
S = Ө
O Pt. may manifest: Abnormal
breath sounds
Decreased breath sounds over affected areas
Cough Dyspnea,
orthopnea Change in
respiratory status
Cyanosis Wide-eyed, restlessness
Ineffective airway
clearance related to increased sputum
production in response to respiratory infection
Due to infected lungs a
substance and discharged are formed by a cell and tissues in
the lungs which indeed blocks the passage
way of oxygen, since oxygen cannot truly
pass and enter to it, this result for the patients to experience
difficulty of breathing and for him to have
ineffective airway
clearance for the reason of
Short term:
After 4 hours of nursing
interventions, the patient will
manifest behaviors to
improve airway
patency.
Long Term:
After 2-3 days of nursing
interventions the patient will
be able to maintain airway
patency.
1. Assess vital signs
2. Auscultate breath sounds
3. Assess respiratory movements and use of accessory muscles
4. Assist patient with coughing and deep breathing exercises.
- To have baseline date
- To note presence of adventitious breath sounds
- Use of accessory muscles to breathe indicates and abnormal increase in work of breathing
- To improve coughing
Short Term:
After 4 hours of nursing
interventions, the patient will
manifest behavior of improved
airway patency as evidenced
by able to cough out sputum.
Long Term:
Patient’s airway is free of secretions as evidenced
by eupnea and clear breath
61 | P a g e
Infiltrates on chest radiograph film
the present secretions. 5. Use
positioning
6. Maintain adequate hydration
7. Use nebulize
8. Institute suctioning as needed
9. Use naso-pharyngeal / oro- pharyngeal airway as needed
10.Monitor chest radiograph reports
11.Administer medication as prescribed (salbutamol, hydrocortisone
- To facilitate clearing secretions
- To aid in the mobilization of secretions
- Loosens secretions
- To remove sputum and mucous plugs
- To have patent airway through artificial means
- To monitor the severity of the disease
- To determine the progression of the disease process
sounds after coughing and
suctioning after 2-3 days.
62 | P a g e
Problem #2: Impaired gas exchange related to collection of mucus in airwaysAssessment Nursing
DiagnosisScientific
ExplanationObjectives Interventions Rationale Evaluation
S = Ө
OPt. may manifest: Dyspnea Cyanosis Tachypnea Air hunger Tachycardia Decreased
activity tolerance
Restlessness Disorientation
/ confusion
Impaired gas exchange related to
collection of mucus in airways
When a virus that causes
pneumonia reaches the lungs
when airborne droplets are
inhaled through the mouth and
nose. Once in the lungs, the virus
invades the cells lining the airways and alveoli. This invasion often leads to cell death, either
when the virus directly kills the cells, or through
a type of cell self-destruction. When the
immune system responds to the viral infection,
even more lung damage occurs
white blood cells,
Short term:
After 3 hours of nursing
interventions, the patient will participate in
treatment regimen within level of ability or situation.
Long Term:
After 3 days of nursing
interventions, the patient will
improve ventilation, adequate
oxygenation and will be able
to remove secretions in
the airway and
1. Monitor vital signs
2. Assess respirations: note quality, rate, pattern, depth, dyspnea on exertion, use of accessory muscles, position assumed for easy breathing
3. Assess skin color
4. Assess for changes in orientation and note increasing restlessness
- to have baseline data
- to note the severity of the disease
- to note the presence of cyanosis
- maybe a sign of hypoxia and hypercardia
- for the
Short Term:
The patient’s participation in
treatment regimen within level of ability or situation will be evident after
3 hours of nursing
interventions.
Long Term:
After 3 days of nursing
interventions, the patient will
improve ventilation, adequate
oxygenation and was able
to lessen secretions in the airway.
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mainly lymphocytes,
activate a variety of chemical
cytokines which allow fluid to leak into the alveoli.
This combination of cell destruction
and fluid-filled alveoli interrupts
the normal transportation of oxygen into the
bloodstream which result for the patient to
have difficulty in breathing.
improve gas exchange. 5. Pace
activities to patient’s tolerance
6. Maintain oxygen administration device as ordered
7. To administer drugs as ordered (salbutamol, hydrocorti-sone)
patient not to consume much energy
- to have a patent airway
- to promote wellness and further complicatioons
64 | P a g e
Problem #3: Acute pain related to respiratory distress and coughingAssessment Nursing
DiagnosisScientific
ExplanationObjectives Interventions Rationale Evaluation
S = Ө
OPt. may manifest: complaints
of discomfort
withdrawal facial
grimaces irritability anxiety tachycardia increased
BP
Acute pain related to
respiratory distress and
coughing
A person may elicit chest pain
due to excessive
coughing or irritation of the lung tissue by the infection.
This infection is cause by the presence of secretions in the lungs that stocks up and due to person
inability to expectorate it,
it requires great force and energy for the
person to cough up and
spit out phlegm, in
order to clear out bronchial
passages.
After 1 day of nursing
interventions, the patient will be able relaxed
and comfortable
and will be able to verbalize reduction of
pain.
1. Assess complaints of discomfort: pain or discomfort with breathing, shortness of breath, muscle pains, pain with coughing.
2. Monitor nonverbal signs of discomfort
3. Administer appropriate medications to treat cough
4. Use cough suppressants and humidity
- to give appropriate intervention
- to the present condition
- for the patient to feel more comfortable
- for the patient to relieve pain
After 1 day fo nursing
interventions, patient will be relaxed, active
and exhibits alert and proper
mentation.
65 | P a g e
for dry, hacking cough
5. Administer analgesics as prescribed
6. Evaluate medication effectiveness
and expectorate phlegm easily
- to promote the patient’s wellness
- to note the effectiveness of the drug
66 | P a g e
Problem #4: Risk for altered nutrition less than body requirementsAssessment Nursing
DiagnosisScientific
ExplanationObjectives Interventions Rationale Evaluation
S pain
O long period
of NPO
Risk for altered nutrition less
than body requirements
An unexplained weight loss may be an
early sign of medical
disorder. Some weight loss may due to inadequate
caloric intake or failure to
increase caloric intake. Weight loss can also be
associated with the loss of
appetite of a person due of
having secretions like in the case of pneumonia.
This trigger the person to
decrease its interest to foods and
After 1-2 days of nursing
interventions, the patient will
be able to maintain optimal
nutritional status
1. Document patient’s actual weight
2. Obtain nutritional history and monitor present caloric intake
3. Maintain bed rest
4. Increase activity gradually as patient tolerates
- to have a baseline data
- to have a background about the patient’s illness that can affect her present condition
- for the patient not to consume much energy
- for the patient to have the exercise needed to promote wellness
After 1-2 days of nursing
interventions, the patient will
be able manifest and
maintain signs of optimal
nutrition status.
67 | P a g e
prefer not to eat indeed this may result to loss of body
weight for the required
nutrients that our body need
is not adequately supplied.
5. Provide high-protein / high – carbohydrate diet, and assist with meals as needed
6. Maintain oxygen delivery system
7. Administer vitamin supplements as prescribed
8. Administer enteral supplements and parenteral nutrition as prescirbed
- to give the patient adequate nutritional needs
- for patent airway
- to strengthen immune system
- to give the patient adequate nutritional need
68 | P a g e
Problem #5: Hyperthermia related to infectious process.Assessment Nursing
DiagnosisScientific
ExplanationObjectives Interventions Rationale Evaluation
S = Ө
OPt. may manifest: chills convulsions confusion Restlessness dizziness
Hyperthermia Temperature is an indication of
an inflammatory response that
indicates a probable
increase in the white blood
cells reflecting infection. The thermal center of the body is then triggered that results in the increases
in body temperature as its physiologic
response together with
the alterations of vital signs.
Short Term:
After 2-3 hours of nursing
interventions, the patient will
have a decrease in its temperature from 38.3 to
37.3.
Long Term:
After 3 days of nursing
interventions, the patient will
be able to maintain
normal core temperature.
1.Monitor vital signs
2.Provide TSB
3.Increase fluid intake
4.Monitored heart rate and rhythm
5.Assess underlying condition and temperature
6.Keep back dry
7.Remove excess
- to have a baseline data
- to release body heat
- to avoid dehydration
- to evaluate effects of hyperthermia
- to obtain comparative baseline data
- to provide comfort and aggravating the condition
- to decrease warm and
Short Term:
There will be a decrease in the
patient’s temperature from 38.3 to
37.3.
Long Term:
After 3 days of nursing
interventions, the patient will
be able to maintain
normal core temperature.
69 | P a g e
clothing and covers
8.Promote adequate rest
9. Administer medications like analgesics and antipyretics as ordered.
increase evaporative cooling
- it reduces metabolic demands and consump-tion
- to lower the temperature to normal level
70 | P a g e
Date> August 20, 2009
PERFORMED BY NURSE ON DUTY (lifted from the chart)
ACTUAL SOAPIERSNursing Problem: Ineffective airway clearance related to increased
sputum production in response to respiratory infection
S> “Nagkasipon sa likod” as verbalized by the patient
O> Received patient on bed awake, conscious ongoing IVF of D5IMB 500ml
regulated at 40 mgtts/min infusing well at the right metacarpal arm.
Presence of rales upon auscultation with productive cough for 3 days. Vital
Signs as follows: Temperature: 37.6 degree Celsius; Pulse rate: 130 bpm;
Respiratory rate: 46 cpm.
A> Ineffective airway clearance related to increased sputum production in
response to respiratory infection
P> After 4 hours of Nursing Intervention the mother will verbalize
understanding of causes and therapeutic management regimen.
I> -Established rapport,
-Assessed the patient,
-Monitored VS,
-Maintained or bed rest,
-Encouraged to increase fluid intake of 2,000ml a day,
-Gave bronchodilators as ordered,
-Auscultated breath sounds and assessed air movements,
-TSB done, promoted surface cooling by assisting in changing clothes,
-promote comfort by fixing linens, and
-administered medicines as ordered.
E> Goal partially met as evidenced by the mother verbalizing understanding
of causes and therapeutic management regimen.
Date> July 21, 2009
71 | P a g e
PERFORMED BY NURSE ON DUTY (lifted from the chart):
Nursing Problem: for home management and home maintenance
S> Ø
O> Received patient flat on bed, conscious with an on going IVF of D5IMB # 5
330cc level with 30-31gtts/min infusing well on his right foot with rales on
BLF, productive cough, restlessness, irritable, VS are as follows: Temp: 36.7
Pulse rate: 121 bpm Respiratory rate:35 cpm
A>for home management and home maintenance
P>After 4 hours of Nursing Intervention the significant other will verbalized
understanding of health treatment regimen given.
I>
M- Gentamycin 0.8 BID x 5 days, Ventolin 1mg TID x 7 days
E- Deep breathing exercise and coughing exercise, Ambulation
T- Seek medical advice first prior to taking medicines
-instructed so to religiously give home medicines
H- Instructed so to increase fluid intake, instructed so to avoid contact of
patient with ill persons to decrease immune function, instructed to
keep back dry, provided adequate rest periods, to isolate patient
from the people who smoke to improve lung function
O- Instructed patient to return for follow up on August 28, 09 to monitor
client’s progress
D- Regular feeding
E> Goal met as evidenced by the SO’s understanding of health treatment
regimen given.
72 | P a g e
CLIENT’S DAILY PROGRESS
Days Admission
August 18, 2009
Day 1
August 19, 2009
Day 2
August 20, 2009
Day3
August 21, 2009
Nursing Problems
Ineffective airway clearance related to increased sputum production in response to respiratory infection
☺ ☺ ☺
Impaired gas exchange related to collection of mucus in airways ☺ ☺ ☺
Acute pain related to respiratory
distress and coughing ☺ ☺ ☺Risk for altered nutrition less than body
requirements ☺ ☺ ☺Hyperthermia ☺ ☺ ☺
Vital Signs
Temperature: 37.4 ‘C 37.9 ‘C 37.6 ‘C 36.7 ‘C
Pulse Rate” 135 bpm 130 bpm 130 bpm 121 bpm
Respiratory
Rate
46 cpm 48 cpm 48 cpm 35 cpm
73 | P a g e
Diagnostics and Laboratory
Procedure
Hematology
Hemoglobin √
Hematocrit √
White blood cells √
Segmenters √
Lymphocytes √
X- Ray √
Medical Management
D5 IMB √ √ √ √
Nebulizer √ √ √ √
Drugs
Cefuroxime √ √ √
Salbutamol Neb √ √ √ √
Paracetamol √ √ √
Hydrocortisone √ √
Furosemide √ √
Diet
regular diet √ √ √ √
74 | P a g e
2. DISCHARGE PLANNING
a. General Condition of Client upon Discharge
The patient upon discharge was restless, irritable and has productive cough. He
had his final assessment and vital signs were taken by the student nurse. VS are as
follows: Temp: 36.7°C axilla, Pulse rate: 121 bpm and Respiratory rate: 35 cpm.
b. METHOD
Medicatio
nsGentamycin 0.8 BID x 5 days, Ventolin 1mg syrup TID x 7 days
Exercise Deep breathing exercise and coughing exercise, Ambulation
Therapy Seek medical advice first prior to taking medicines
Instructed so to religiously give home medicines
Health
teachings
Instructed so to increase fluid intake with SAP, instructed
significant others to avoid contact of patient with ill persons with
decrease immune function;
to keep back dry;
provide adequate rest periods;
isolate patient from the people who smoke to improve lung
function
OPDInstructed patient to return for follow up on August 28, 09 to monitor
client’s progress
Diet Regular feedings
75 | P a g e
CONCLUSION
A. Nurse-centered
The researchers were able to gain knowledge and deeper understanding
of the disease process itself, improve their skills regarding the management
of the disease process and impart health teachings regarding the client’s
condition in maintaining an optimum level of functioning. Moreover, the
researchers were able to accomplish the following:
1. Interpreted the and deeply understand the disease condition;
2. Related the present state of the client with his personal and pertinent
family history;
3. Analyzed and interpret the different diagnostic and laboratory
procedures, its purpose and its essential relationship to client’s disease
condition;
4. Identified treatment modalities and its importance like drugs, diet and
exercise;
5. Identified surgical management and its purpose that is applicable with
the disease condition;
6. Formulated nursing care plans based on the prioritized health needs of
the client;
7. Gained knowledge on the acquisition and progression of the disease;
8. Imparted knowledge on fellow students in providing care for clients
with the same illness.
B. Patient-Centered
The client and the significant others were able to acquire knowledge on
the risk factors that have contributed to the development of the disease;
also, gain understanding of the disease process and demonstrate compliance
on the treatment management rendered by the health care team.
76 | P a g e
In relation to the patient’s condition, the proponents were also able to
accomplish these tasks:
1. Gained knowledge about the disease of the patient;
2. Identified different interventions in his condition;
3. Gained knowledge on the importance of compliance to treatment
regimen;
4. Demonstrated compliance on the treatment management;
5. Identified different measures to prevent further aggravation of
condition;
6. Participated in his plan of care; and
7. Demonstrated independence on self-care and home management upon
discharge and during follow-up home visits.
The student nurses therefore concluded that low socio-economic status
and nutritional deficiency greatly affect the individual’s susceptibility against
the occurrence of diseases. They also include the different risk factors that
contribute to the occurrence of pneumonia such as: the environment,
improper sanitation, deficient knowledge and understanding regarding the
disease, its cause, mode of transmission, prevention and treatment, and the
patient’s susceptibility to the disease. Furthermore, the student nurses
conclude that:
The environment plays a vital role in the health of a person.
The viruses and bacteria that cause pneumonia are contagious and are
usually found in fluid from the mouth or nose of an infected person.
Illness can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes on a
person, by sharing drinking glasses and eating utensils, and when a
person touches the used tissues or handkerchiefs of an infected
person.
Risk for infection will always be blamed to the decrease in the primary
defenses as well as with the virulence of a microorganism.
77 | P a g e
Recommendations
With this, the student nurses would like to give the following
recommendations:
For the Nurses:
Adequate research of the disease condition must should be acquired
regarding the so that proper treatment and prevention can be
implemented, without costing the patient time and money. Nurses
must stress the need for good prenatal care and emphasize on
parents, the value of regular check-ups and follow-up care. Proper
infection control especially strict hand washing should be
implemented in the hospital because it is the most effective
method in controlling the spread of infection from staff to patient
and staff to other immune-suppressed.
For the hospital:
Sterility or cleanliness of hospital equipment should be maintained.
Seminars about infection control should be conducted with hospital
staff to be knowledgeable in the prevention of infection from spreading
the disease. Maintain and supply of resources, especially sufficient
and accurate diagnostic laboratory tests.
Parents:
If your child's doctor has prescribed antibiotics for bacterial
pneumonia, give the medicine on schedule for as long as the doctor
78 | P a g e
directs. This will help your child recover faster and will decrease the
chance that infection will spread to other household members. For
instance, if the antibiotic is required by the doctor to be given for 7
days, strictly follow the said time, do not stop even if the child no
longer experiences the signs and symptoms. Don't force a child who's
not feeling well to eat, but encourage your child to drink fluids,
especially if fever is present. Ask your child's doctor before you use a
medicine to treat your child's cough because cough suppressants stop
the lungs from clearing mucus, which may not be helpful in some types
of pneumonia. If your child has chest pain, try a heating pad or warm
compress on the chest area. Take your child's temperature at least
once each morning and each evening, and call the doctor if it goes
above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius) in an older infant
or child, or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) in an
infant under 6 months of age. Check your child's lips and fingernails to
make sure that they are rosy and pink, not bluish or gray, which is a
sign that your child's lungs are not getting enough oxygen. Isolate the
sick child from the healthy children so as to prevent the transmission
of the disease.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Davis's DRUG GUIDE for Nurses / ed. Deglin Judith Hopper and Vallerand April Hazard. - [s.l.] : F. A. Davis Co., 2009.
Kozier & Erb's Fundamentals of Nursing [Book] / auth. Berman Audrey [et al.]. - [s.l.] : Pearson Education South Asia PTE. LTD., 2007. - 8th Edition : Vol. I : II.
Medical-Surgical Nursing: Clinical Management for Positive Outcomes [Book] / auth. Black Joyce and Hawks Jane Hokanson. - Singapore : Saunders Elsevier, 2009. - Eight : Vol. II.
Microbiology: An Introduction [Book] / auth. Tortora Gerard J., Funke Berdell R. and Case Christine L.. - California : Pearson Education, Inc, 2006. - 9th Edition.
Pathophysiology [Book] / auth. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. - Ambler, PA : Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2007.
Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease [Book] / auth. Kumar Vinay, Abbas Abul K. and Fausto Nelson. - China : Elsevier Saunders, 2005. - Seventh Edition. - 0-8089-2302-1.
Taber's Medical Dictionary 21/e / ed. Venes Donald. - [s.l.] : F.A. Davis Company, 2009. - 21st.
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