Nutrition and Hydration

Lung Disease and Pressure Injuries

Definitions and Condition Overview

  • Atelectasis: A medical term referring to the collapse of part or all of a lung, resulting in reduced oxygen exchange and respiratory issues.

Understanding Hemoglobin

  • Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

  • Low levels of hemoglobin can result from anemia, causing fatigue and increased heart rate as the body compensates to transport less oxygen.

Factors Contributing to Pressure Injuries

  1. Breathing and Circulation Issues

    • Any impairment in breathing or circulation can lead to inadequate blood flow to body tissues.

  2. Infections

    • Localized or systemic infections can diminish blood flow and increase inflammation, leading to tissue destruction, especially in the area of pressure ulcers.

    • Continuous damage without effective repair results in larger, more severe ulcers.

  3. Age:

    • Older adults tend to be more vulnerable to pressure injuries due to physiological decline.

  4. Pain and Incontinence:

    • Severe pain can limit movement and breathing, exacerbating risk factors.

    • Incontinence (e.g., stool) can also worsen skin condition and lead to further deterioration of pressure ulcers.

  5. Nutritional Status

    • Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for skin integrity and overall health.

Focused Assessments in Risk Management

  • Assessing skin integrity is critical.

  • Established risk factors include:

    • Evidence of redness or non-blanching erythema.

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