UNIT 7 - RESP

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

COPD is a persistent obstruction of the airways that occurs with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or both.

What characterizes chronic airflow obstruction in COPD?

It is a persistent decrease in the rate of airflow from the lungs during exhalation.

What defines chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis is defined as the presence of a chronic productive cough for 3 months in 2 successive years, with other causes of chronic cough excluded.

What happens to the bronchi in chronic bronchitis?

The glands lining the bronchi enlarge and increase their secretion of mucus.

How is emphysema defined?

Emphysema is characterized by widespread and irreversible destruction of the alveolar walls and enlargement of many alveoli.

What are the effects of emphysema on airflow?

Destruction of alveolar wall attachments leads to bronchioles collapse, causing permanent airflow obstruction.

What causes airflow obstruction in COPD?

Air becomes trapped in the lungs after exhalation, increasing the effort required to breathe and impairing oxygen and CO2 exchange.

What is the main cause of COPD?

Cigarette smoking is the primary cause, although other factors like chemical fumes and dust exposure can also contribute.

What are common symptoms of COPD?

Symptoms include a mild cough with clear sputum, shortness of breath on exertion, and sputum color changes to yellow or green during exacerbations.

What is an acute exacerbation of COPD?

It is a worsening of symptoms, usually involving increased cough, sputum production, and shortness of breath, potentially requiring hospitalization.

What are some severe symptoms of COPD?

Severe symptoms may include shortness of breath, anxiety, diaphoresis, cyanosis, and confusion during flare-ups.

How is emphysema diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on physical examination findings and pulmonary function tests.

What is the significance of polycythemia in COPD diagnosis?

A blood test may show polycythemia, indicating high levels of red blood cells due to chronic low oxygen levels.

What is the role of chest x-rays in diagnosing COPD?

In mild COPD, chest x-rays are usually normal, but they may show over-inflation of the lungs as the disease progresses.

What is the most important treatment for COPD?

Stopping smoking is the most crucial step in managing COPD.

What are inhaled bronchodilators used for in COPD treatment?

They relax muscles around bronchioles to help open airways and improve airflow.

What vaccinations are recommended for people with COPD?

Annual influenza vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccinations every 5 to 6 years are recommended.

What is the purpose of pulmonary rehabilitation programs?

These programs help improve lung function and overall health in individuals with COPD.

What is the role of corticosteroids in COPD treatment?

Corticosteroids are used for moderate to severe COPD when symptoms cannot be controlled by other medications.

What is the purpose of spirometry in COPD management?

Spirometry is used to monitor lung function and symptoms in individuals with COPD.

What is the significance of long-term oxygen therapy in advanced COPD?

Long-term oxygen therapy can prolong life in individuals with advanced COPD and severely reduced oxygen levels.

What is the primary purpose of programs related to COPD?

To provide education about the disease, exercise, nutritional and psychological counseling.

What is single lung transplantation used for?

It may be used in certain people younger than 60 with severe airflow obstruction.

What is lung volume reduction surgery?

A procedure for people with severe emphysema that removes the most diseased portions of the lungs to improve function.

What happens to oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood during the later stages of COPD?

Oxygen levels decrease while carbon dioxide levels increase.

What condition is caused by decreased oxygen levels in the blood in COPD patients?

Secondary polycythemia, where the bone marrow produces more red blood cells.

What is the prognosis for people with advanced COPD?

The prognosis becomes progressively worse, especially with continued smoking.

What type of therapy may be needed for end-stage COPD patients during flare-ups?

Ventilation therapy.

What are some key assessment questions for someone with COPD?

Questions about family history, difficulty breathing, cough characteristics, and current medications.

What are some important health teachings for patients with COPD?

Understanding COPD, recognizing symptoms, breathing exercises, smoking cessation, and medication management.

What is pneumonia?

An inflammatory process in lung parenchyma associated with increased interstitial and alveolar fluid.

What is the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia?

Often caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae.

What differentiates hospital-acquired pneumonia from community-acquired pneumonia?

Hospital-acquired pneumonia occurs 48 hours or longer after admission and often involves different causative agents.

What are some common causes of pneumonia?

Bacteria, viruses, mycoplasmas, fungi, and aspiration of food or fluids.

What are some risk factors for developing pneumonia?

Advanced age, history of smoking, upper respiratory infections, and immunosuppressive therapy.

What are the common signs and symptoms of pneumonia?

Fever, chills, cough, dyspnea, fatigue, and hemoptysis.

What diagnostic tests are used for pneumonia?

Chest x-ray, sputum culture and sensitivity, complete blood count, and arterial blood gas measurements.

What is the role of collaborative therapy in pneumonia treatment?

Includes specific antibiotic therapy, bronchodilators, oxygen therapy, and nutritional support.

What is asthma?

An inflammatory disorder of the airways.

What is the most important characteristic of asthma?

Reversible narrowing of the airways.

What causes the airways to narrow in asthma?

Bronchi narrow in response to stimuli that usually do not affect normal lungs.

What are common allergens that can trigger asthma?

Pollen, dust mites, feathers, and animal dander.

What is the role of immunoglobulin E in allergic asthma?

It combines with allergens on mast cells, triggering the release of asthma-causing chemicals.

What substances do mast cells release during an asthma response?

Histamine and leukotrienes.

What is the role of eosinophils in asthma?

They release substances that contribute to airway narrowing.

What happens to the smooth muscle during an asthma attack?

The smooth muscle layer goes into spasm, narrowing the airway.

What are some common symptoms of asthma?

Wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and cough.

When do asthma attacks typically occur?

Often at night or in the early morning.

What is status asthmaticus?

The most severe form of asthma where the lungs cannot provide adequate oxygen.

What diagnostic tests confirm asthma?

Pulmonary function tests before and after inhaling a beta-adrenergic agonist.

What is a challenge test in asthma diagnosis?

A test measuring pulmonary function before and after inhaling a chemical that narrows airways.

What are anti-inflammatory drugs used for in asthma treatment?

They suppress inflammation that narrows the airways.

What is the function of bronchodilators in asthma treatment?

They relax and dilate the airways.

What should individuals with asthma be educated about?

Prevention and treatment of asthma attacks, proper drug use, and when to seek medical care.

What can provoke asthma attacks besides allergens?

Cigarette smoke, cold air, viral infections, stress, and anxiety.

What is the significance of peak flow meters in asthma management?

They help monitor the severity of airway obstruction and treatment effectiveness.

What is the role of education for family members of asthma patients?

To ensure they understand how to help prevent and manage asthma attacks.

What is the impact of exercise on asthma?

It can induce bronchoconstriction in some individuals with asthma.

What is a common symptom during a severe asthma attack?

The person can only say a few words without stopping to breathe.

What are signs that emergency treatment is needed during an asthma attack?

Confusion, lethargy, and cyanosis indicating limited oxygen supply.