Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the lungs. When in contact with a trigger, the muscles around the airways constrict and inflammation and mucus in the airways make breathing difficult, known as an asthma attack. There is no cure for asthma, and untreated asthma attacks can be life-threatening, but there are many effective treatments that help manage and control this condition. Show
Asthma is the most common chronic condition among children. Children with asthma are extra sensitive to triggers as their smaller airways are easily affected by swelling and mucus. Approximately 50% of children “outgrow” asthma once they reach adolescence, though it may return in adulthood. The Nursing ProcessNurses can expect to have frequent contact with patients who have asthma. Asthma can present as an acute exacerbation requiring prompt treatment and close observation or as a chronic condition in the patient’s history. Nurses can support patients in the management of their disease by providing education on symptoms, triggers, and medications. Nursing Care Plans Related to AsthmaActivity Intolerance Care PlanSymptoms such as dyspnea and fatigue during an asthma exacerbation deplete energy and prevent the ability to carry out tasks. Nursing Diagnosis: Activity Intolerance Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Activity Intolerance Assessment1. Assess for activity triggers. 2. Assess the level of limitation. 3. Monitor for emotional factors affecting activity. Activity Intolerance Interventions1. Encourage progressive activity. 2. Educate on
triggers. 3. Offer other activities. 4. Plan for exercise. Ineffective Breathing Pattern Care PlanNarrowing of the airways results in inadequate pulmonary ventilation and an ineffective breathing pattern. Nursing Diagnosis: Ineffective Breathing Pattern Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Ineffective Breathing Pattern Assessment1. Auscultate lung
fileds. 2. Monitor respiratory status. 3.
Monitor ABGs. Ineffective Breathing Pattern Interventions1. Administer bronchodilators and corticosteroids. 2. Instruct on peak flow meters. 3.
Help the patient identify their triggers. 4. Promote calm, relaxed breathing. Readiness for Enhanced Therapeutic Regimen Management Care PlanChildren may take an interest in managing their asthma and making their own decisions. Even toddlers can learn how to use inhalers and spacers. Parents and healthcare professionals can support children in managing their treatment. Nursing Diagnosis: Readiness for Enhanced Therapeutic Regimen Management Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Readiness for Enhanced Therapeutic Regimen Management Assessment1. Assess for readiness to learn and make decisions. 2. Assess for a dependable support system. 3. Assess the child’s understanding of the disease. Readiness for Enhanced Therapeutic Regimen Management Interventions1. Provide games and videos to promote learning. 2. Make tracking symptoms fun. 3. Observe for proper use of inhalers and devices. 4. Create an action plan. References and Sources
Which of the following tests measures the volume of air the lungs can hold at the end of maximum inhalation?The most basic test is spirometry. This test measures the amount of air the lungs can hold. The test also measures how forcefully one can empty air from the lungs. Spirometry is used to screen for diseases that affect lung volumes.
For which client should the nurse provide instructions for pursed lip breathing?Purse lip breathing commonly helps patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Which of the following findings are manifestations of pulmonary tuberculosis?The clinical symptoms of pulmonary TB develop slowly and are nonspecific. These may include a prolonged cough with mucus, pleuritic chest pain, hemoptysis, dyspnea, wheezing, weakness or progressive fatigue, cachexia/weight loss, loss of appetite (resulting in anorexia), chills/fever, night sweats, and malaise (2,–5).
Which of the following findings is an indication of a pneumothorax?Findings that suggest tension pneumothorax include unequal breath sounds (diminished or absent on the side of the pneumothorax), tracheal deviation (away from the side of the pneumothorax), distended neck veins, and/or signs of respiratory distress.
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