Respiratory Distress

What can cause respiratory distress? (Select the option that lists all mentioned causes)

Asthma, Hyperventilation, Aspiration, Fainting, Heart failure, Hypoglycemia, Drug Overdose, Anaphylaxis (allergic reaction), COPD/Emphysema

Regardless of the cause, what is a common symptom of respiratory distress?

Shortness of breath

What is tachypnea in the context of respiratory distress?

Rapid breathing

What causes wheezing in respiratory distress?

Turbulent airflow through narrowed bronchioles

What is a symptom of respiratory distress involving the chest?

Chest tightness

What is a common symptom of respiratory distress related to energy levels?

Fatigue

What does cyanosis cause in patients with respiratory distress?

Bluish lips/fingertips

Do patients in respiratory distress often fall unconscious immediately?

No, at least not immediately

What is asthma?

A chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways of the lungs

What does asthma cause?

Difficulty breathing and respiratory distress

How common is asthma?

Fairly common

Do most asthmatics have asthma attacks on a continuous basis?

No, they are usually triggered by something

What can trigger an asthma attack?

A stressful situation

What does a “rescue” inhaler contain?

Albuterol (a fast-acting bronchodilator)

When should a person suffering an asthma attack use a rescue inhaler?

During the attack

Where should rescue inhalers be brought?

To each appointment

How should rescue inhalers be kept?

Readily available for use if needed

What is hyperventilation?

A condition where a person breathes rapidly and deeply, exceeding their body's physiological needs for oxygen

What is the primary cause of hyperventilation in a dental office setting?

Fear and anxiety

Which demographic does hyperventilation tend to affect more?

Younger females more than males

How can hyperventilation affect itself?

It can compound itself, meaning the patient may worsen the condition by panicking

What should a patient who is hyperventilating be advised to do first?

Hold their breath for 20-30 seconds

What additional method can help a hyperventilating patient regulate blood O2/CO2 levels?

Breathing into a brown paper bag, or their own cupped hands

What happens to foreign bodies or materials dropped into the oropharynx?

More likely to be ingested and continue into the GI tract, rather than aspirated

What is a way to prevent foreign body ingestion or airway obstruction?

Use of a rubber dam

What is another way to prevent foreign body ingestion or airway obstruction?

Throat pack

What is a third way to prevent foreign body ingestion or airway obstruction?

Ligating small instruments or materials with floss

What should be done for patients suspected of having swallowed a foreign body who are not in distress?

Escorted to the ER for a chest x-ray

What should be performed if a patient has aspirated a foreign body and cannot breathe?

The Heimlich maneuver

What color are oxygen tanks?

Green

What color are nitrous tanks?

Blue

For whom may supplemental oxygen be delivered?

A patient who is in respiratory distress and who could benefit from extra O2 administration

What is the purpose of supplemental oxygen in respiratory distress?

To provide extra O2 administration if beneficial

What is a symptom of respiratory distress involving breathing sounds?

Wheezing while breathing

What is a symptom of respiratory distress related to respiratory actions?

Frequent coughing

Patients with respiratory distress exhibit similar symptoms regardless of what?

The cause

Is hyperventilation almost always caused by fear and anxiety in a dental office?

Yes

What does Albuterol do?

It is a fast-acting bronchodilator

Are foreign bodies more likely to be aspirated or ingested?

Ingested into GI tract

What imaging is recommended for suspected swallowed foreign body?

Chest x-ray