pulmonary diseases
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Pulmonary Diseases. Pulmonary Diseases & Disorders. Pulmonary Disease & Conditions may result from: Infectious causes Non-Infectious causes Adversely affect one or more of the following Ventilation Diffusion Perfusion. Pulmonary Diseases & Disorders. - PowerPoint PPT PresentationTRANSCRIPT
Pulmonary DiseasesPulmonary Diseases
Pulmonary Diseases & DisordersPulmonary Diseases & Disorders
Pulmonary Disease & Conditions may result from:– Infectious causes– Non-Infectious causes
Adversely affect one or more of the following– Ventilation– Diffusion– Perfusion
Pulmonary Diseases & DisordersPulmonary Diseases & Disorders The Respiratory Emergency may stem from
dysfunction or disease of (examples only):– Control System
• Hyperventilation• Central Respiratory Depression• CVA
– Thoracic Bellows• Chest/Diaphragm Trauma• Pickwickian Syndrome• Guillian-Barre Syndrome• Myasthenia Gravis• COPD
Pulmonary Diseases & DisordersPulmonary Diseases & Disorders The Respiratory Emergency may affect the
upper or lower airways
Upper Airway Obstruction– Tongue– Foreign Body Aspiration– Angioneurotic Edema– Maxillofacial, Larnygotracheal Trauma– Croup– Epiglottitis
Respiratory Emergencies: CausesRespiratory Emergencies: Causes
Lower Airway Obstruction– Emphysema– Chronic Bronchitis– Asthma– Cystic Fibrosis
Pulmonary Diseases & DisordersPulmonary Diseases & Disorders
The Respiratory Emergency may stem from Gas Exchange Surface Abnormalities– Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema– Non-cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema– Pneumonia– Toxic Gas Inhalation– Pulmonary Embolism– Drowning
Pulmonary Diseases & DisordersPulmonary Diseases & Disorders
Problems with the Gas
Exchange Surface
Pulmonary EdemaPulmonary Edema
Pulmonary Edema: PathophysiologyPulmonary Edema: Pathophysiology
A pathophysiologic condition, not a disease– Fluid in and around alveoli– Interferes with gas exchange– Increases work of breathing
Two Types– Cardiogenic (high pressure)– Non-Cardiogenic (high permeability)
Pulmonary EdemaPulmonary Edema High Pressure (cardiogenic)
• AMI• Chronic HTN• Myocarditis
High Permeability (non-cardiogenic)• Poor perfusion, Shock, Hypoxemia• High Altitude, Drowning• Inhalation of pulmonary irritants
Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema: EtiologyCardiogenic Pulmonary Edema: Etiology
Left ventricular failure Valvular heart disease
– Stenosis– Insufficiency
Hypertensive crisis (high afterload) Volume overload
Increased Pressure in Pulmonary Vascular Bed
Pulmonary EdemaPulmonary Edema
High Permeability– Disrupted alveolar-capillary membrane– Membrane allows fluid to leak into the interstitial
space– Widened interstitial space impairs diffusion
Non-Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema: EtiologyNon-Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema: Etiology
Toxic inhalation Near drowning Liver disease Nutritional deficiencies Lymphomas High altitude pulmonary edema Adult respiratory distress syndrome
Increased Permeability of Alveolar-Capillary Walls
Pulmonary Edema: Signs &SymptomsPulmonary Edema: Signs &Symptoms
Dyspnea on exertion Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea Orthopnea Noisy, labored breathing Restlessness, anxiety Productive cough (frothy sputum) Rales, wheezing Tachypnea Tachycardia
Management of Non-Cardiogenic Pulmonary EdemaManagement of Non-Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema Position Oxygen PPV / Intubation
– CPAP– PEEP
IV Access; Minimal fluid administration Treat the underlying cause
– Diuretics usually not helpful; May be harmful Transport
Adult Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
AKA: Non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema A complication of:
– Severe Trauma / Shock– Severe infection / Sepsis– Bypass Surgery– Multiple blood transfusions– Drug overdose– Aspiration– Decreased compliance– Hypoxemia
Pneumonia Pneumonia
PneumoniaPneumonia
Fifth leading cause of death in US/Canada Group of Specific infections Risk factors
– Cigarette smoking– Exposure to cold– Extremes of age
• young • old
PneumoniaPneumonia Inflammation of the bronchioles and alveoli
– Products of inflammation (secretions, pus) add to respiration difficulty
Gas exchange is impaired Work of breathing increases May lead to
– Atelectasis– Sepsis– VQ Mismatch– Hypoxemia
Pneumonia: EtiologyPneumonia: Etiology
Viral Bacterial Fungi Protozoa (pneumocystis) Aspiration
Presentation of PneumoniaPresentation of Pneumonia
Shortness of breath, Dyspnea Fever, chills Pleuritic Chest Pain, Tachycardia Cough
– Green/brown sputum May have crackles, rhonchi or wheezing in
peripheral lung fields– Consolidation– Egophony
Management of PneumoniaManagement of Pneumonia
Treatment mostly based upon symptoms– Oxygen– Rarely is intubation required– IV Access & Rehydration
– B2 agonists may be useful
– Antibiotics (e.g. Rocephin)– Antipyretics
Pneumonia: ManagementPneumonia: Management
MD follow-up for labs, cultures & Rx Transport considerations
– Elderly have significant co-morbidity– Young have difficulty with oral medications– ED vs PMD office/clinic– Transport in position of comfort
Would an anticholinergic like Atrovent be useful in managing
pneumonia?
Pulmonary EmbolismPulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary EmbolismPulmonary Embolism
~ 50,000 deaths / year/ US– ~5% of all sudden deaths– <10% of all PE result in death
Pulmonary Embolism: PathophysiologyPulmonary Embolism: Pathophysiology
Something moving with flow of blood passes through right heart into pulmonary circulation
It reaches an area too narrow to pass through and lodges there
Part of pulmonary circulation is blocked Blood:
– Does not pass alveoli– Does not exchange gases
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
A disorder of perfusion Combination of factors increase probability of
occurrence– Hypercoagulability– Platelet aggregation– Deep vein stasis
Embolus usually originates in lower extremities or pelvis
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Risk factors– Venostasis or DVT– Recent surgery or trauma
• Long bone fractures (lower)
– Oral contraceptives– Pregnancy– Smoking– Cancer
Pulmonary Embolism: EtiologyPulmonary Embolism: Etiology
Most Common Cause = Blood Clots
Vessel Wall Injury
Hypercoagulability Venous Stasis
Virchow’sTriad
Other causes– Air– Amniotic fluid– Fat particles (long bone fracture)– Particulates from substance abuse– Venous catheter
Pulmonary Embolism: EtiologyPulmonary Embolism: Etiology
Pulmonary Embolism: Signs & SymptomsPulmonary Embolism: Signs & Symptoms
Small Emboli– Rapid Onset– Dyspnea– Tachycardia– Tachypnea– Fever– Episodic = Showers– Evidence or history of thrombophlebitis– Consider early when no other cardiorespiratory
diagnosis fits
Larger Emboli– Small Emboli S/S plus:– Pleuritic pain– Pleural rub– Coughing– Wheezing– Hemoptysis (rare)
Pulmonary Embolism: Signs & SymptomsPulmonary Embolism: Signs & Symptoms
Very Large Emboli– Preceded by S/S of Small & Larger Emboli plus: – Central chest pain– Distended neck veins– Acute right heart failure– Shock– Cardiac arrest
Pulmonary Embolism: Signs & SymptomsPulmonary Embolism: Signs & Symptoms
Pulmonary Embolism: Signs & SymptomsPulmonary Embolism: Signs & Symptoms
There are NO assessment
findings specific to pulmonary embolism
Management based on severity of Sx/Sx Airway & Breathing
– High concentration O2
– Consider assisting ventilations– Early Intubation
Circulation– IV, 2 lg bore sites
• Fluid bolus then TKO; Titrate to BP ~ 90 mm Hg
– Monitor ECG Rapid transport
Pulmonary Embolism: ManagementPulmonary Embolism: Management
PE ManagementPE Management Thrombolytics
– Aspirin & Heparin (questionable if any benefit) Rapid transport to appropriate facility
– Embolectomy or thrombolytics at hospital (rarely effective in severe cases due to time delay)
– Poor prognosis when cardiac arrest follows
Pulmonary EmbolismPulmonary Embolism
If the patient is alive when you get to them, that embolus isn’t going to
kill them.
But the next one they throw might!
PleurisyPleurisy
Inflammation of pleura caused by a friction rub– layers of pleura rubbing together
Commonly associated with other respiratory disease
Presentation of PleurisyPresentation of Pleurisy
Sharp, sudden and intermittent chest pain with related dyspnea– Possibly referred to shoulder– May or with respiration
Pleural “friction rub” may be audible” May have effusion or be dry
PleurisyPleurisy
Management– Based upon severity of presentation– Mostly supportive
Pulmonary Diseases & DisordersPulmonary Diseases & Disorders
Problems with Airway Obstructions
Obstructive Airway Diseases
Obstructive Airway DiseaseObstructive Airway Disease
Asthma Emphysema Chronic Bronchitis
Obstructive Airway DiseasesObstructive Airway Diseases
Asthma experienced by ~ 4 - 5 % of Canadian population– Mortality rate increasing
Factors leading to Obstructive Airway Diseases– Smoking– Exposure to environmental agents– Genetic predisposition
How does this differ from “COPD”?
Obstructive Airway DiseaseObstructive Airway Disease
Exacerbation Factors– Intrinsic
• Stress (especially in adults)• URI• Exercise
– Extrinsic• Cigarette Smoke• Allergens• Drugs• Occupational hazards
Obstructive Airway DiseaseObstructive Airway Disease
General Pathophysiology– Specific pathophysiology varies by disease– Obstruction in bronchioles
• Smooth muscle spasm (beta)• Mucous accumulation• Inflammation
– Obstruction may be reversible or irreversible
Obstructive Airway DiseaseObstructive Airway Disease
General Pathophysiology– Obstruction results in air trapping
• Bronchioles usually dilate on inspiration• Dilation allows air to enter even in presence of
“obstruction”• Bronchioles tend to constrict on expiration• Air becomes trapped distal to obstruction
Lower Airway Disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Emphysema
Chronic Bronchitis
(Rarely Asthma may result in COPD)
COPD: EpidemiologyCOPD: Epidemiology
Most common chronic lung disease 4th leading cause of death many deaths annually
Emphysema
Type A COPD
Emphysema: Definition Emphysema: Definition
Destruction of alveolar walls
Distention of pulmonary air spaces
Loss of elastic recoil Destruction of gas
exchange surface
Emphysema: IncidenceEmphysema: Incidence
Male > females Urban area > rural areas Age usually > 55
Emphysema:EtiologyEmphysema:Etiology Smoking
– 90% of all cases– Smokers 10x more likely to die of COPD than
non-smokers Environmental factors Alpha – 1 antitrypsin deficiency
– hereditary– 50,000 to 100,000 cases– mostly people of northern European descent
Emphysema: PathophysiologyEmphysema: Pathophysiology
Decreased surface area leads to decreased gas exchange with blood
Loss of pulmonary capillaries & hypercapnia lead to – increased resistance to blood flow which leads to
• pulmonary HTN• right heart failure (cor pulmonale)
Emphysema: PathophysiologyEmphysema: Pathophysiology
Loss of elastic recoil leads to increased residual volume and CO2 retention– Air Trapping– Hyperinflation– Hypercapnia -> pulmonary vasoconstriction ->
V/Q mismatch
Emphysema: Signs and SymptomsEmphysema: Signs and Symptoms
Increasing dyspnea on exertion Non-productive cough Malaise Anorexia, Loss of weight Hypertrophied respiratory accessory muscles
Emphysema: Signs and SymptomsEmphysema: Signs and Symptoms
Increased Thoracic AP Diameter (Barrel Chest)
Decreased lung/heart sounds
Hyperresonant chest
Emphysema: Signs and SymptomsEmphysema: Signs and Symptoms Lip pursing on exhalation Clubbed fingertips Altered blood gases
– Normal or decreased PaO2
– Elevated CO2
Cyanosis occurs LATE in course of disease
PINK PUFFER
Chronic Bronchitis
Type B COPD
Chronic Bronchitis: DefinitionChronic Bronchitis: Definition
Increased mucus production for > 3 months for > 2 consecutive years
Recurrent productive cough
Chronic Bronchitis: IncidenceChronic Bronchitis: Incidence
Males > females Urban areas > rural areas Age usually > 45
Chronic Bronchitis: EtiologyChronic Bronchitis: Etiology
Smoking Environmental irritants
Chronic Bronchitis: PathophysiologyChronic Bronchitis: Pathophysiology
Mucus plugging/inflammatory edema Increased airflow resistance leads to
alveolar hypoventilation Alveolar hypoventilation leads to
– hypercarbia– hypoxemia
Chronic Bronchitis: PathophysiologyChronic Bronchitis: Pathophysiology
Hypoxemia leads to– increased RBC’s w/o oxygen which leads to
• cyanosis
Hypercarbia leads to– pulmonary vascular constriction which leads to
• increased right ventricular work which leads to• right heart failure which may progress to• cor pulmonale
Chronic Bronchitis: Signs and SymptomsChronic Bronchitis: Signs and Symptoms Increasing dyspnea on exertion Frequent colds of increasing duration Productive cough Weight gain, edema (right heart failure) Rales, rhonchi, wheezing Bluish-red skin color (polycythemia) Headache, drowsiness (increased CO2)
Chronic Bronchitis: Signs and SymptomsChronic Bronchitis: Signs and Symptoms Decreased intellectual ability Personality changes Abnormal blood gases
– Hypercarbia– Hypoxia
Cyanosis EARLY in course of disease
BLUE BLOATER
COPD Assessment FindingsCOPD Assessment Findings
Chronic condition acute episode S&S of work of breathing and/or hypoxemia
– Use of accessory muscles– Increased expiratory effort– Tachycardia, AMS, Cyanosis– Wheezing, Rhonchi, LS– Thin, red/pink appearance
Saturation usually normal in emphysema
COPD: ManagementCOPD: Management
Causes of Decompensation– Respiratory infection (increased mucus
production)– Chest trauma (pain discourages coughing or deep
breathing)– Sedation (depression of respirations and
coughing)– Spontaneous pneumothorax– Dehydration (causes mucus to dry out)
COPD: ManagementCOPD: Management
Airway and Breathing– Sitting position or position of comfort– Calm & Reassure– Encourage cough– Avoid exertion
Oxygen– Don’t withhold
– Maintain O2 saturation above 90 %
TRUE HYPOXIC DRIVE IS VERY RARE
COPD: ManagementCOPD: Management
Ventilation– Avoid intubation unless absolutely necessary
• near respiratory failure• exhaustion
Circulation– IV TKO– Titrate fluid to degree of dehydration
• 250 cc trial bolus
– Excessive fluid may precipitate CHF– Monitor ECG
COPD: ManagementCOPD: Management
Drug Therapy– Obtain thorough medication history– Nebulized Beta 2 agonists
• Albuterol• Terbutaline• Metaproterenol• Isoetharine
COPD: Management
REMEMBER
All bronchodilators are potentially arrhythmogenic
COPD: ManagementCOPD: Management
Drug Therapy– Ipratropium (anticholinergic) by SVN– (beta-2 agonist) by MDI, SQ or IV– Corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory agent) by IV
COPD: ManagementCOPD: Management
Avoid– Sedatives
• Restlessness = hypoxia– Antihistamines
• Dry secretions, decrease LOC– Epinephrine
• Myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias– Intubation
• difficult to wean off ventilator
Reversible Obstructive Airway Disease
Asthma
Asthma: DefinitionAsthma: Definition
Lower airway hyper-responsiveness to a variety of stimuli
Diffuse reversible airway obstruction or narrowing
Airway inflammation
Asthma: IncidenceAsthma: Incidence
50% onset before age 10 33% before age 30 “Asthma” in older patients suggests other
obstructive pulmonary diseases Risk Factors
– Family history of asthma– Perinatal exposure to airborne allergens and
irritants– Genetic hypersensitivity to environmental allergens
(Atopy)
AsthmaAsthma
Diagnosis
– H&P, Spirometry– Hx or presence of episodic symptoms of
airflow obstruction– airflow obstruction is at least partially
reversible– alternative diagnoses are excluded
AsthmaAsthma
Commonly misdiagnosed in children as– Chronic bronchitis– Recurrent croup– Recurrent URI– Recurrent pneumonia
AsthmaAsthma
Often triggered by:– Cold temperature– Respiratory Infections– Vigorous exercise– Emotional Stress– Environmental allergens or irritants
Exacerbation– Extrinsic common in children– Intrinsic common in adults
Asthma PathophysiologyAsthma Pathophysiology
Asthma triggered Bronchial smooth muscle contraction Increased mucus production
– Bronchial ‘plugging’– Relative dehydration
Alveolar hypoventilation – Ventilation Perfusion Mismatch
– CO2 retention
– Air ‘Trapping’
Asthma: PathophysiologyAsthma: Pathophysiology
Bronchospasm
Bronchial Edema Increased MucusProduction
Asthma: PathophysiologyAsthma: Pathophysiology
Asthma: PathophysiologyAsthma: Pathophysiology
Cast of airway produced by asthmatic mucus plugs
Asthma: PathophysiologyAsthma: Pathophysiology
Difficulty exhaling– chest hyperinflation
Poor gas exchange– hypoxia– hypercarbia
Increased respiratory water loss– dehydration
Asthma: TypesAsthma: Types
Type 1 Extrinsic– Classic allergic asthma– Common in children, young adults– Seasonal in nature– Sudden brief attacks– Major component is bronchospasm– Good bronchodilator response
Asthma: TypesAsthma: Types
Type 2 Extrinsic Asthma– Adults < 35– Long term exposure to irritants– More inflammation than Type 1 Extrinsic– Does not respond well to bronchodilators– Needs treatment with corticosteroids
Asthma: TypesAsthma: Types
Intrinsic Asthma– Adult > 35– No immunologic cause– Aspirin sensitivity/nasal polyps– Poor bronchodilator response
Asthma: Signs and SymptomsAsthma: Signs and Symptoms
Onset of attacks associated with “triggers” Dyspnea Non-productive cough Tachypnea Expiratory wheezing Accessory muscle use Retractions
Asthma: Signs and Symptoms
Absence of wheezing
IMPENDING RESPIRATORY ARREST!
Asthma: Signs and SymptomsAsthma: Signs and Symptoms
Tachycardia Pulsus paradoxus in severe attacks Anxiety, restlessness (hypoxia) progressing
to drowsiness, confusion (hypercarbia)
Asthma: Signs and Symptoms
Lethargy, confusion, suprasternal retractions RESPIRATORY FAILURE
Asthma: Signs and SymptomsAsthma: Signs and Symptoms Early Blood Gas Changes
– Decreased PaO2
– Decreased PaCO2
WHY?
Asthma: Signs and SymptomsAsthma: Signs and Symptoms
Later Blood Gases– Decreased PaO2
– Normal PaCO2
IMPENDING RESPIRATORY
FAILURE
Asthma: Signs and SymptomsAsthma: Signs and Symptoms
Still Later Blood Gases– Decreased PaO2
– Increased PaCO2
RESPIRATORY FAILURE
Asthma: Risk AssessmentAsthma: Risk Assessment Prior ICU admissions Prior intubation >3 ED visits in past year >2 hospital admissions in past year >1 bronchodilator canister used in past month Use of bronchodilators > every 4 hours Chronic use of steroids Progressive symptoms in spite of aggressive Rx
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Airway Breathing
– Sitting position or position of comfort
– Humidified O2 by NRB mask
• Dry O2 dries mucus, worsens plugs
– Encourage coughing– Consider intubation, assisted ventilation
• Impending respiratory failure• Avoid if at all possible
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Circulation– IV TKO– Assess for dehydration– Titrate fluid administration to severity of
dehydration• Trial bolus of 250 cc
– Monitor ECG, Pulse Oximetry
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Obtain medication history Consider
– Overdose– Dysrhythmias
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Nebulized Beta-2 agents– Salbutamol
Nebulized anticholinergics– Ipratropium– Atropine
IV Corticosteroid– Methylprednisolone
Combination – Flovent/etc
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Rarely used– Questionable efficacy, Potential Complications
– Magnesium Sulfate (IV)– Methylxanthines
• Aminophylline (IV)
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Subcutaneous beta agents– Epinephrine 1:1000 q 30 minutes up to 3 doses
• Adult – 0.3 mg SQ/IM• Pediatric – 0.1 to 0.3 mg SQ/IM
POSSIBLE BENEFIT IN PATIENTS WITH VENTILATORY FAILURE
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Use EXTREME caution in giving two sympathomimetics or two doses to same patient
Monitor ECG
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Avoid– Sedatives
• Depress respiratory drive– Antihistamines
• Decrease LOC, dry secretions– Aspirin
• High incidence of allergy
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Continuous Monitoring & Frequent Reassessment
Need for transport? Destination?
Asthma: ManagementAsthma: Management
Transport Considerations– How severe is the episode?– Is the patient improving?– How extensive (invasive) were the required
therapies?– What does he/she normally do after treatment?– Medical Control or PMD consult
Drug Delivery Methods: ReviewDrug Delivery Methods: Review
MDI vs. MDI w/ spacer vs. SVNvs. SQ injection
Status Asthmaticus
Asthma unresponsive to beta-2 adrenergic agents
Status AsthmaticusStatus Asthmaticus Oxygen (humidified if possible) Nebulized beta-2 agents Nebulized Ipratropium Corticosteroids IV or SQ terbutaline or epinephrine Aminophylline (controversial) Magnesium sulfate (controversial) Intubation
– Caution with PPV
Golden RuleGolden Rule
Pulmonary edema Pulmonary embolism Allergic reactions COPD Pneumonia Foreign body aspiration Cystic fibrosis
ALL THAT WHEEZES IS NOT ASTHMA
Lower Airway Disease
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis: DefinitionCystic Fibrosis: Definition
Inherited metabolic disease of exocrine glands and sweat glands
Primarily affects digestive, respiratory systems
Begins in infancy
Cystic Fibrosis: EtiologyCystic Fibrosis: Etiology
Autosomal recessive gene Both parents must be carriers Incidence
– Caucasians--1:2000– Blacks--1:17,000– Asians--very rare
Cystic Fibrosis: PathophysiologyCystic Fibrosis: Pathophysiology
Obstruction of pancreatic, intestinal gland, bile ducts
Over-secretion by airway mucus glands– mucous plugs
Excess loss of sodium chloride in sweat
Lower Airway Disease
Neoplasms of the Lung
Hyperventilation Syndrome
Hyperventilation SyndromeHyperventilation Syndrome
Brady Textbook Correction, Vol. 3, p. 57– Table 1-4: These are NOT Causes of
hyperventilation syndrome A diagnosis of EXCLUSION!!! An increased ventilatory rate that
– DOES NOT have a pathologic origin– Results from anxiety
Remains a real problem for the patient
Hyperventilation Syndrome: PathophysiologyHyperventilation Syndrome: Pathophysiology
Tachypnea or hyperpnea secondary to anxiety
Decreased PaCO2
Respiratory alkalosis
Vasoconstriction Hypocalcemia Decreased O2 Release to
Tissues
Hyperventilation Syndrome:Signs & SymptomsHyperventilation Syndrome:Signs & Symptoms Symptoms
– Light-headedness, giddiness, anxiety– Numbness, paresthesias of:
• Hands• Feet• Circumoral area
– Cold hands, feet– Carpopedal spasms– Dyspnea– Chest pain
Hyperventilation Syndrome:Signs & SymptomsHyperventilation Syndrome:Signs & Symptoms Signs
– Rapid breathing– Cool & possibly pale skin– Carpopedal spasm– Dysrhythmias
• Sinus Tachycardia• SVT• Sinus arrhythmia
– Loss of consciousness and seizures (late & rare)
Hyperventilation Syndrome: ManagementHyperventilation Syndrome: Management Educate patient & family
– Consider possible psychopathology especially in “repeat customers”
Transport occasionally required– If loss of consciousness, carpopedal spasm,
muscle twitching, or seizures occur:• Monitor EKG• IV TKO• Transport
Hyperventilation Syndrome
Hyperventilation itself can be serious
Serious diseases can mimic hyperventilation
Pulmonary Infectious Diseases
Laryngotracheobronchitis (Croup)Laryngotracheobronchitis (Croup)
Common syndrome of infectious upper airway obstruction
Viral infection– parainfluenza virus
Subglottic Edema– larynx, trachea,
mainstem bronchi
Usually 3 months to 4 years of age
Croup: Signs & SymptomsCroup: Signs & Symptoms
Gradual onset (several days)– Often begins with Sx of URI– May begin with only low grade fever
Hoarseness Cough
– “Seal Bark Cough”– “Brassy Cough”
Nocturnal episodes of increased dyspnea and stridor
Croup: Signs & SymptomsCroup: Signs & Symptoms
Evidence of respiratory distress– Tracheal tugging– Substernal/intercostal retractions– Accessory muscle use
Inspiratory stridor or respiratory distress may develop slowly or acutely
Croup: ManagementCroup: Management
Usually requires little out of home treatment
Calm & Prevent agitation!!! Moist cool air - mist Humidified O2 by mask or blowby Do Not Examine Upper Airways!!!
Croup: ManagementCroup: Management
If in respiratory distress:– Racemic epinephrine via nebulizer
• Decreases subglottic edema (temporarily)• Necessitates transport for observation for rebound
– IV TKO - ONLY if severe respiratory distress– Transport
EpiglottitisEpiglottitis
Bacterial infection (Hemophilus influenza )
Edema of epiglottis (supraglottic)– partial upper airway
obstruction Typically affects 3-7
year olds
Epiglottitis: PresentationEpiglottitis: Presentation Age: 3-7 years of age
– can occur in adults– can occur in infants
Rapid onset & progression– Fever– Severe sore throat– Dysphagia– Muffled voice– Drooling
Epiglottitis: PresentationEpiglottitis: Presentation Respiratory difficulty
– Stridor– Usually in an upright, sitting, tripod position
Child may go to bed asymptomatic and awaken during the night with– sore throat– painful swallowing– respiratory difficulty
Epiglottitis: ManagementEpiglottitis: Management
Do NOT attempt to visualize airway Allow child to assume position of comfort
– AVOID agitation of the child!!!– AVOID anxiety of the healthcare providers!!!
O2 by high concentration mask
Immediate life threat (8-12% die from airway obstruction)
Epiglottitis: ManagementEpiglottitis: Management
If respiratory failure is eminent:– IV TKO ONLY if eminent or respiratory arrest– Be prepared to take control of airway
• Intubation equipment with smaller sized tubes• Needle cricothyrotomy & jet ventilation equipment
Rapid but calm transport– Appropriate facility
Upper Respiratory InfectionUpper Respiratory Infection
Common illness Rarely life-threatening Often exacerbates underlying pulmonary
conditions May become more significant in some
patients– Immunosuppressed– Elderly– Chronic pulmonary disease
Upper Respiratory InfectionUpper Respiratory Infection
Prevention– Avoidance is nearly impossible
• Too many potential causes• Temporarily impaired immune system
– Best prevention strategy is handwashing• Covering of mouth during sneezing and coughing also
helpful
Pathophysiology of URIPathophysiology of URI
Wide variety of bacteria and viruses are causes– Normal immune system response results in
presentation 20-30% are Group A streptococci Most are self-limiting diseases
Presentation of URIPresentation of URI
Symptoms– Sore throat– Fever– Chills– HA
Signs– Cervical adenopathy– Erythematous pharynx– Positive throat culture (bacterial)
Management of URIManagement of URI
Usually requires no intervention Oxygen if underlying condition has been
exacerbated Rarely, pharmacologic interventions are
required– Bronchodilators– Corticosteroid
Occasionally, transport required– Key question: Destination?
Central Respiratory DepressionCentral Respiratory Depression
Respiratory Depression: CausesRespiratory Depression: Causes
Head trauma CVA Depressant drug toxicity
– Narcotics– Barbiturates– Benzodiazepines– ETOH
Respiratory Depression: RecognitionRespiratory Depression: Recognition
Decreased respiratory rate (< 12/min) Decreased tidal volume Decreased LOC
Look, Listen, Feel
Use Your Stethoscope
If you can’t tell whether a patient is breathing
adequately...
THEY PROBABLY
AREN’T
Respiratory Depression: ManagementRespiratory Depression: Management
Airway– Open, clear, maintain– Consider endotracheal intubation
The need to VENTILATE is not the same as the need to INTUBATE
Respiratory Depression: ManagementRespiratory Depression: Management
Breathing– Oxygenate, ventilate– Restore normal rate, tidal volume
Oxygen alone is INSUFFICIENT if Ventilation is INADEQUATE
Respiratory Depression: ManagementRespiratory Depression: Management Circulation
– Obtain vascular access– Monitor EKG (Silent MI may present as CVA)
Manage Cause– Check Blood Sugar– Consider Narcan 2mg IV push if S/S suggest
narcotic overdose Intubate if can not find or treat cause
Guillian-Barre´ SyndromeGuillian-Barre´ Syndrome
Autoimmune disease– Leads to inflammation and degeneration of
sensory and motor nerve roots (de-myelination)
Progressive ascending paralysis– Progressive tingling and weakness– Moves from extremities then proximally– May lead to respiratory paralysis (25%)
Guillian-Barre´ Syndrome ManagementGuillian-Barre´ Syndrome Management Treatment based on severity of symptoms
– Control airway– Support ventilation– Oxygen– Transport in cases of respiratory depression,
distress or arrest
Myasthenia GravisMyasthenia Gravis
Autoimmune disease Causes loss of ACh receptors at
neuromuscular junction– Attacks the ACh transport mechanism at the
NMJ Episodes of extreme skeletal muscle
weakness Can cause loss of control of airway,
respiratory paralysis
Myasthenia Gravis PresentationMyasthenia Gravis Presentation
Gradual onset of muscle weakness– Face and throat– Extreme muscle weakness
Respiratory weakness -> paralysis Inability to process mucus
Myasthenia Gravis ManagementMyasthenia Gravis Management
Treat symptomatically Watch for aspiration May require assisted ventilations Assess for Pulmonary infection Transport based upon severity of
presentation
Case Studies
Case OneCase One
It is 1430 hrs. You are called to a business for a “possible stroke.” The patient is a 20-year-old female complaining of dizziness and of numbness around her mouth and fingertips.
What would you like to include in your initial differential diagnosis?
Case OneCase One
Initial Assessment– Airway: Open, maintained by patient– Breathing: Rapid, deep, regular; no accessory
muscle use or retractions– Circulation: Radial pulses present, rapid, full; Skin
warm, dry; capillary refill < 2 seconds– Disability: Awake, alert, anxious
What therapies, if any, would you like to begin?
Case OneCase One Vital Signs
– P: 126 strong, regular– R: 26 deep, regular– BP: 130/82
Physical Exam– Chest: BS present, equal bilaterally; no
adventitious sounds– Extremities: Equal movement in all
extremities; no weakness; hands cool– Oxygen saturation: 98%
Would you like to make any Changes to your therapies or Diff Dx?
Case OneCase One
History– Allergies: NKA– Medications: Birth control pills– Past History: No significant past history; no
history of smoking– Last Meal: Lunch 2 hours ago– Events: S/S began suddenly after argument
with supervisor
Case OneCase One
What problem do you now suspect? How would you manage this patient?
Case TwoCase Two
It is 0530 hours. You are called to a residence to see a child with “a very high fever and difficulty breathing.” The patient is a 6-old-female. Mother says the child woke up crying about 2 hours ago.
What would you like to include in your differential diagnosis?
Case TwoCase Two Initial Assessment
– Airway: Inspiratory stridor audible– Breathing: Rapid, shallow, labored– Circulation: Radial pulses present, rapid, weak;
skin pale, hot, diaphoretic; capillary refill is 2 seconds
– Disability: Awake, alert, obviously frightened and in acute distress
What therapies, if any, would you like to begin now?
Case TwoCase Two Vital Signs
– P: 130 weak, regular– R: 32 shallow, regular with stridor– BP: 110/70
Physical Exam– HEENT: Flaring of nostrils; accessory muscle
use on inspiration; drooling present– Chest: BS present, equal bilaterally; no
adventitious sounds– Oxygen saturation: 92%
Would you like to make any Changes to your therapies or Diff Dx?
Case TwoCase Two History
– Allergies: NKA– Medications: None– Past History: No significant past history– Last Meal: Dinner at about 1800 hours– Events: Awakened with severe sore throat. Has
experienced increasing difficulty breathing. Will not eat or drink. Says it hurts to swallow
Case TwoCase Two
What problem do you now suspect? How would you manage this patient?
Case ThreeCase Three
At 2330 hrs you are called to a residence to see a child with “difficulty breathing.” The patient is a 3 year old male.
How narrow a Differential Diagnosis can you compile at this point?
Case ThreeCase Three Initial Assessment
– Airway: Open, maintained by patient, mild stridor audible
– Breathing: Rapid, shallow, labored– Circulation: Radial pulses present, weak, regular;
Skin pale, warm, moist; Capillary refill <2 seconds– Disability: Awake, sitting up in bed, looks tired and
miserable
Case ThreeCase Three Vital Signs
– P: 100 weak, regular– R: 30 shallow, labored with stridor– BP: 90/50
Physical Exam– HEENT: Use of accessory muscles present; no
drooling– Chest: BS present, equal bilaterally with no
adventitious sounds. Auscultation difficult because of stridor and barking cough
Now you can narrow your Diff Dx? To what?
Case ThreeCase Three History
– Allergies: NKA– Medication: Tylenol for fever before bedtime– Past history: No significant past history– Last meal: Dinner around 1800 hours– Events: Patient has had “cold” for about 3 days.
Reasonably well during day. Awakens around midnight with high-pitched cough that sounds like a dog barking
Case ThreeCase Three
What problem do you suspect? How would you manage this patient?
Case FourCase Four At 1945 hours you are dispatched to a
“breathing difficulty” at Long John Silver’s. The patient is a 26-year-old female complaining of strange feeling in her mouth and difficulty swallowing.
What is your differential diagnosis?
Case FourCase Four
Initial Assessment– Airway: Open, maintained by patient, difficulty
swallowing, voice is hoarse– Breathing: Rapid, labored– Circulation: Radial pulses present, strong, regular;
Skin “flushed”; Capillary refill < 2 seconds– Disability: Awake, alert, very anxious
Case FourCase Four Vital Signs
– P: 120 strong, regular– R: 26 regular, slightly labored– BP: 118/90
Physical Exam– HEENT: Puffiness around eyes; Lips appear swollen;
Mild accessory muscle use– Chest: BS present, equal bilaterally; No adventitious
sounds– Urticaria on upper chest, extremities– Oxygen saturation: 94%
What therapies do you want to initiate?
Case FourCase Four History
– Allergies: No drug allergies; Has experienced itching previously when eating shrimp
– Medications: None– Past history: No significant past history; no
history of smoking– Last meal: In progress at time of call– Events: Began to experience itching and
difficulty swallowing after eating “fish and chips”
Case FourCase Four
What problem do you suspect? How would you manage this patient?
The patient begins to have increased difficulty swallowing, increased anxiety, and increased
difficulty breathing. What do you want to do now?
Case FiveCase Five At 0130 you are dispatched to an
“unconscious person--police on location.” The patient is a 27-year-old male who is apparently unconscious. The police report they found him lying in an alleyway while they were on routine patrol. He is known to live “on the streets”.
Case FiveCase Five Initial Assessment
– Airway: Controllable with manual positioning– Breathing: Very slow, shallow– Circulation: Radial pulses present, weak; Skin
pale, cool, moist; Capillary refill 3 seconds– Disability: Unconscious, unresponsive to painful
stimuli
What therapies would you like to begin?
Case FiveCase Five Vital Signs
– P: 70 regular, weak– R: 4 shallow, regular; alcohol odor on breath– BP: 100/70
Physical Exam– HEENT: Pupils pinpoint, non-reactive– Chest: BS present, equal bilaterally– Abdomen: Soft, non-tender– Extremities: Needle tracks present– Blood glucose: 40 mg/dl
Case FiveCase Five
What problem or problems do you suspect?
How would you manage this patient?