Respiratory Disorders - Medical Management and Nursing Interventions

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to respiratory disorders, their medical management, nursing interventions, and patient education.

Acute Bronchitis

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing secondary infections.

Legionnaires’ Disease

Caused by Legionella pneumophila, a gram-negative bacterium found in contaminated water.

COVID-19

A viral infection that can cause mild symptoms to severe illness, with onset 2 to 14 days after exposure.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, this disease is transmitted through airborne droplets.

Empyema

Accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity due to infection or inflammation.

Pneumonia

An inflammatory process affecting the bronchioles and alveoli, often caused by bacteria or viruses.

Thoracentesis

A procedure to remove fluid from the pleural space to diagnose or treat pleural effusion.

Pneumothorax

Condition where air enters the pleural space causing lung collapse.

Pulmonary Edema

Accumulation of fluid in the alveoli often due to left-sided heart failure.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

A severe condition characterized by respiratory failure and hypoxemia unresponsive to oxygen.

Emphysema

A form of COPD caused by destruction of alveolar walls leading to impaired gas exchange.

Chronic Bronchitis

A condition involving chronic inflammation and increased mucus production in the bronchi.

Asthma

A chronic disease characterized by wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.

Inhaled corticosteroids

Medications prescribed for long-term management of asthma to reduce inflammation.

Airborne Precautions

Infection control practices used to prevent transmission of airborne pathogens.