Respiratory Alterations

Sample Solution

Pathophysiology of Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly at night or early morning. These symptoms are caused by airway hyperresponsiveness, which means that the airways become narrowed and inflamed in response to certain triggers.  

The pathophysiology of asthma involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. When a person with asthma is exposed to a trigger, such as allergens, irritants, or respiratory infections, the airways become inflamed and narrowed. This narrowing is due to the contraction of the airway muscles, swelling of the airway lining, and the production of excess mucus. As a result, airflow is restricted, leading to the symptoms of wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.

Source: National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Asthma. [Website] Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma-management-guidelines-2020-updates

Full Answer Section

Factors Related to Asthma

Cultural Implications

Cultural factors can play a significant role in the development and management of asthma. For example, cultural beliefs and practices may influence a person's perception of illness, their willingness to seek medical care, and their adherence to treatment plans. Additionally, cultural factors can affect exposure to potential triggers, such as allergens or air pollution.

Source: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. (2021). Cultural factors in asthma. [Website] Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3266227/

Financial Implications

Asthma can have a significant financial impact on individuals and families. The cost of medications, medical appointments, and emergency room visits can be burdensome, especially for those without health insurance. Financial difficulties may also lead to non-adherence to treatment plans, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase the risk of severe exacerbations.

Source: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. (2023). The cost of asthma. [Website] Retrieved from https://aafa.org/

Environmental Implications

Environmental factors, such as air pollution, exposure to allergens, and secondhand smoke, can trigger asthma attacks and worsen the condition. Reducing exposure to these environmental triggers is essential for managing asthma and improving quality of life.

Source: World Health Organization. (2021). Air pollution and child health. [Website] Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-CED-PHE-18-01

Priority Nursing Interventions

1. Monitor respiratory status: Assess respiratory rate, effort, and oxygen saturation frequently.
2. Administer medications as ordered: Ensure timely administration of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and other prescribed medications.
3. Provide oxygen therapy: Administer supplemental oxygen as needed to maintain adequate oxygenation.
4. Monitor fluid status: Assess for signs of dehydration or fluid overload and adjust fluid intake as necessary.
5. Educate the patient and family: Provide information about asthma management, trigger avoidance, and medication use.

Labs and Diagnostic Testing

• Pulmonary function tests: To assess lung function and identify airway obstruction.
• Chest X-ray: To rule out other conditions that may be causing respiratory symptoms.
• Allergy testing: To identify allergens that may be triggering asthma attacks.
• Blood tests: To evaluate blood cell counts, electrolyte levels, and other markers of inflammation.

Critical Indicators:

• Oxygen saturation: A decrease in oxygen saturation below 90% may indicate severe respiratory distress.
• Respiratory rate: A rapid respiratory rate or labored breathing can be a sign of worsening asthma.
• Wheezing: Persistent wheezing is a classic symptom of asthma.
• Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR): A significant decrease in PEFR can indicate worsening airway obstruction.

Source: American College of Chest Physicians. (2021). Asthma guidelines. [Website] Retrieved from https://www.chestnet.org/guidelines-and-topic-collections/topic-collections/asthma

Interdisciplinary Team Members

• Pulmonologist: A specialist in respiratory diseases who can provide expert guidance on asthma management.
• Respiratory therapist: A healthcare professional who specializes in respiratory care and can assist with oxygen therapy and other interventions.
• Registered dietitian: Can provide nutritional counseling to help manage asthma symptoms and promote overall health.
• Social worker: Can assist with social and emotional support, as well as connecting the family with community resources.
• Case manager: Can help coordinate care and ensure that the patient receives the necessary services and support.

Source: National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Asthma. [Website] Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma-management-guidelines-2020-updates

By providing comprehensive care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of the patient, the interdisciplinary team can help improve outcomes for individuals with asthma.