COPD
Medical Interventions
Bronchodilators
Medications
Pathophysiology
Inflammation occurs as a result of poisonous gases entering body from smoking.
In initial stage of the disease there is chronic inflammation of the alveoli, bronchioles, and pulmonary blood vessels
Corticosteriods
Antibiotics
smoking cessation medications
Opioid anlesics
Possible surgery to remove blebs or bullae
patient education
Exercise regularly
Stop smoking
Maintain healthy diet and normal weight
Education about disease and treatment options
Take all prescribed medications
Acetaminophen
Albuterol
Nursing considerations
Past and present medical history
Auscultate lung sounds
Exposure to cigarette smoke
Monitor for signs of hypoxia
Breath sounds and patterns
Nursing interventions
to improve airway clearance the nurse instructs the patient on productive coughing
to improve breathing pattern pursed lip breathing may be used (slows expiration, prevents collapse of small airways, and controls the rate and depth of respirations)
Monitor and record respiratory rate and depth, and use of accessory muscles
Nicotine Gum and Patch
Advair
pertinent assessment findings
O2 sat 84%
temperature of 101.3 F
Patient is having a difficult time communicating due to his respiratory status
Hematocrit 35%
Nurse will monitor for changes in the level of consciousness and mental status
Assess nutrition status to determine dietary needs
Do not stop taking medications unless indicated by physician
Anticholinergics
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Hemoglobin 7.2
Serum pH 7.28
CO2- 60
There is an increase in mucus secretion and fluid within the lungs causing an airflow obstruction and trapping.
Elastic tissue in small airways is damaged which cause a defect in elastic recoil and alveolar walls are compromised.