Respiratory Primary Care

Inspiration

The diaphragm contracts allowing oxygen to be taken in (oxygenation)

Expiration

The diaphragm relaxes carbon dioxide is released (ventilation)

Upper Respiratory Infection

An acute infection of the upper airway usually caused by different viruses

Pneumonia

Inflammation of the lungs caused by a reaction to an invading pathogenic microorganism or noxious substance

Asthma

Disorder of the trachea bronchial tree characterized by mild to severe obstruction of airflow

Treatment for URI

Cough suppressants, decongestants, throat lozenges, analgesics for fever and body aches increased fluids, rest

Treatment for Pneumonia

NSAID or acetaminophen for fever, decongestant, cough suppressants, increase fluid intake, antibiotics, bronchodilators, consider best rest/profile

Causes for URI

Common cold and influenza

Common Cold

Can be as mild as having a runny or stuffy nose, or in severe cases symptoms including: nasal congestion sore throat, sneezing, slight fever, cough, sinus pressure, fatigue, malaise, hoarseness, breathing difficulties, and body aches

Influenza

Higher intensity of pain influence by the patient, extreme tiredness, fever, and nausea, highly contagious, overall body aches and joint pain

Causes for Asthma

Emotional upsets, physical exertion, cold weather

Red Flags of Respiratory Complaints

Fever greater than 101, SOB, abnormal breath sounds: rhonchi, rales, wheezing, abnormal pulse oximetry, accessory muscle use