Pneumonia

What are the common manifestations of pneumonia in older adult clients?

Anxiety, fatigue, weakness, chest discomfort due to coughing, and confusion from hypoxia.

What physical assessment findings are expected in a patient with pneumonia?

Fever, chills, flushed face, diaphoresis, shortness of breath, tachypnea, sharp pleuritic chest pain, yellow-tinged sputum, crackles and wheezes, coughing, dull chest percussion, decreased oxygen saturation, and possibly purulent or blood-tinged sputum.

What does a chest x-ray show in a pneumonia patient?

Consolidation (density) of lung tissue.

What is the expected reference range for oxygen saturation in pneumonia patients?

95% to 100%.

What should be done before starting antibiotic therapy for pneumonia?

Obtain a sputum culture and sensitivity.

Why might older clients have difficulty expectorating sputum?

They may have a weak cough reflex and decreased muscle strength.

What are expected laboratory findings in pneumonia patients?

Elevated WBC count, hypoxemia (PaO2 less than 80 mm Hg), and signs of dehydration in electrolyte tests.

What nursing action is recommended for a client with pneumonia regarding positioning?

Position the client to maximize ventilation, ideally in a high-Fowler’s position.

What is the primary purpose of administering oxygen therapy in pneumonia patients?

To improve oxygen saturation and alleviate hypoxemia.

What type of medications are typically prescribed for treating pneumonia?

Antibiotics, bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatories.

What should clients be educated about when taking antibiotics for pneumonia?

Take them with food and ensure that cultures are collected before the first dose.

How are bronchodilators used in pneumonia treatment?

To reduce bronchospasm and irritation in the respiratory system.

What should be monitored in patients taking theophylline for bronchodilation?

Blood medication levels for toxicity due to its narrow therapeutic range.

What is a key side effect to monitor in clients taking albuterol?

Tachycardia and tremors.

What complications can arise from pneumonia?

Atelectasis, bacteremia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

What does atelectasis indicate in a patient with pneumonia?

Aeration inflammation and edema leading to alveolar collapse.

What is the first action a nurse should take when assessing a client suspected of having pneumonia?

Obtain baseline vital signs and oxygen saturation.

What client education is important regarding influenza and pneumonia vaccinations?

Encourage obtaining vaccinations to prevent infection.

What common signs indicates that a client might have rhinitis?

Excessive nasal drainage, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes.

What is a common self-care activity recommended for clients with rhinitis?

Use a home humidifier or breathe in steamy air.

What dietary adjustment is suggested for clients with pneumonia to assist in care?

Increase fluid intake to promote hydration and thinning of secretions.

Which antibiotics are commonly prescribed for pneumonia?

Penicillins and cephalosporins.

Name a key assessment finding in a patient who has developed acute respiratory distress syndrome due to pneumonia.

Persistent hypoxemia despite oxygen therapy.

What is a potential side effect of glucocorticosteroids that clients should be educated about?

Fluid retention and weight gain.

What should clients be advised to do if they experience dry mouth from ipratropium?

Suck on hard candies to moisten the mouth.

What common recommendation is made for clients who are taking corticosteroids?

Always take them with food and avoid stopping the medication abruptly.