Nursing Care of a Family When a Child Has a Respiratory Disorder

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to respiratory disorders in children, healthcare assessments, and treatments.

Upper Respiratory Tract

Includes the nose, paranasal sinuses, pharynx, larynx, and epiglottis.

Lower Respiratory Tract

Consists of the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

Inspiration

The process of breathing in, delivering warmed, moistened air to the alveoli.

Expiration

The process of breathing out, releasing carbon dioxide-filled air.

Gas Exchange Regulation

Maintains the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in lungs, blood, and body cells.

Hypoxemia

Low oxygen levels in the blood, which may cause peripheral vasoconstriction and pale skin.

Cyanosis

A blue skin tinge indicating hypoxia, visible when PaO₂ drops below 40 mmHg.

Clubbing of Fingers

A change in the angle between the fingernail and nail bed due to increased capillary growth.

Adventitious lung sounds

Abnormal breath sounds like wheezing, stridor, rales, and rhonchi indicating respiratory conditions.

Tachypnea

An increased respiratory rate often indicating airway obstruction in young children.

Pulmonary Function Tests

Assess how well lungs take in and utilize air, measuring elasticity, flow resistance, and ventilation.

Bronchiectasis

A chronic widening and blockage of the bronchi, leading to a chronic cough and thick sputum.

Asthma

A chronic respiratory condition causing airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction, triggered by various allergens.

Epiglottitis

Serious inflammation of the epiglottis that can block the airway, often requires immediate medical attention.

Croup

An inflammation of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi, causing a distinctive barking cough.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)

A chronic lung disease in infants, commonly due to mechanical ventilation for respiratory distress.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

A common viral infection leading to bronchiolitis in infants and young children.

Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn

A temporary condition of rapid breathing in newborns caused by fluid in the lungs.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

The rate of energy expenditure per unit time by endothermic animals at rest.

Clear Airways

A medical procedure or result indicating that the airways are free of obstructions.