Respiratory and Airway Pharmacology Practice Flashcards

These flashcards cover respiratory anatomy, common upper and lower airway conditions (viral, bacterial, and non-infectious), assessment findings, respiratory rhythms, pharmacology, and medical terminology based on the lecture transcript.

Upper Respiratory Tract

Consists of the nose, paranasal, pharynx, larynx, and trachea.

Lower Respiratory Tract

Consists of the lungs, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

SARS-CoV-2

The specific RNA virus belonging to the Coronaviridae family that causes COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019).

Sinusitis

Infection or inflammation of the lining of the sinuses characterized by headache, facial pain, and a runny nose lasting longer than $7-10$ days.

Pleurisy

Pain on inspiration often associated with pneumonia.

Tactile fremitus

A chest exam finding in pneumonia indicating consolidation.

Normal respirations

A respiratory rhythm of $10-20$ breaths per minute.

Tachypnea

A rapid rate of breathing defined as $>24$ breaths per minute.

Bradypnea

A slow rate of breathing defined as $<10$ breaths per minute.

Apnea

Involuntary cessation or absence of breathing.

Cheyne-Stokes Respirations

Fast, deep breathing with a gradual increase then decrease in rate and depth, followed by periods of apnea lasting $20$ seconds.

Kussmaul breathing

Fast, deep, and labored breathing that is a sign of metabolic acidosis.

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

A first-generation sedating antihistamine that binds to H1 receptors and blocks histamine release; contraindicated in acute asthma attacks.

Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

A second-generation non-sedating peripherally acting antihistamine that antagonizes H1 receptors; taken once daily for a $24$-hour effect.

Phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine)

A decongestant that activates alpha1-adrenergic receptors to cause vasoconstriction; client instruction is to use for no more than $3$ days.

Guaifenesin (Mucinex)

An expectorant that reduces surface tension of secretions to thin mucous; may cause ADRs such as nephrolithiasis or acute renal failure.

Acetylcysteine (Acetadote)

A mucolytic that decreases the viscosity of mucus and is used as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose; noted for its rotten egg smell.

Codeine

An opioid antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex in the brain; can cause respiratory depression and its antidote is naloxone.

Dextromethorphan

A non-opioid antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex; sedation occurs only with high doses.

Adventitious sounds

Abnormal breath sounds.

Atelectasis

Incomplete expansion or collapse of a part of the lungs.

Crackles

Crackling sounds made as air moves through wet secretions in the lungs.

Crepitus

A grating sound or sensation under the skin around the lungs or in the joints.

Cyanosis

Bluish coloring of the skin.

Dyspnea

Difficult or labored breathing.

Hemoptysis

Sputum containing blood.

Hypoxia

Inadequate amount of oxygen available to the cells.

Nasal Flaring

The widening of nostrils while breathing, indicating difficulty in breathing.

Orthopnea

Shortness of breath when lying flat that is relieved by sitting or standing.

Pneumothorax

Air in the pleural space.

Stridor

A harsh, high-pitched sound heard on inspiration when the upper airway becomes narrowed.

Tripod Position

A position where a person sits or stands leaning forward with hands on knees, often adopted by people experiencing respiratory distress.

Wheezes

A high-pitched, musical noise that sounds like a squeak.