quick review

Atelectasis

Postoperative patient avoiding deep breathing → encourage pain control, coughing, deep breathing, and incentive spirometry.

Pneumonia

Fever, elevated WBCs, cough, and hypoxemia → support oxygenation and administer prescribed treatment.

TB

Suspected infectious pulmonary TB → airborne precautions, negative-pressure room, and N95 respirator.

Pulmonary edema

Severe dyspnea, crackles, pink frothy sputum → immediately prioritize oxygenation and breathing.

Pleural effusion

Fluid compressing the lung → decreased expansion and breath sounds; thoracentesis may be indicated.

Acute respiratory failure

Inadequate oxygenation and/or ventilation → immediate respiratory support.

ARDS

Severe, worsening hypoxemia despite oxygen → suspect serious inflammatory lung injury.

PAH

Increased pulmonary pressure → right ventricular strain and possible right-sided heart failure.

PE

Sudden dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain in a high-risk patient → emergency assessment and respiratory support.

Occupational lung disease

Repeated harmful dust exposure → prevention is key.

Lung cancer

Persistent or changing cough, hemoptysis, unexplained weight loss, or hoarseness → further evaluation is needed.