Pulmonary Disorders

Basic Concepts

classification- based on pulmonary function tests

obstructive-increased resistance to airflow

restrictive-reduced expansion of lung tissue, decreased total lung capacity

bronchodilation-smooth muscle in bronchi and bronchioles, reduction in airway resistance caused by relaxation of airway smooth muscle

pleural membrane-lines chest cavity, thin film of fluid lubricates membrane layers

pleural effusion- fluid in pleural space

disabilities-

hypoxia-lack of oxygen

hypercapnia- elevated carbon dioxide levels

hypoxia and hypercapnia may occur together

chronic hypercapnia-PaCO2 greater than 45 mmHg

if hypercapnia prolonged, central chemoreceptors become insensitive to CO2

chronic hypoxia-ideal PaO2: 90 to 100mm Hg

Pulmonary Assesments

-current, past smoking habits

smoking history in pack years

occupational exposure to toxic agents, marijuana, cocaine

genetics

diagnosing

chest x-rays, CT scan, MRI, V-Q scan, bronchospy, ABG's

total lung capacity test, functional residual capacity, residual volume, tidal volume

Treatment

bronchodilators, anti inflammatory agents, rescue medications, maintenanc medications

nebulizers, lung volume reduction surgery, intubation, mechanical ventilation

obstructive disorders

asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, sleep disordered breathing