NCLEX Review & Nursing School

Emphysema

EMPHYSEMA

Emphysema is the irreversable overdistention of the airspaces of the lungs which results in destruction of the alveolar walls.  Clients with emphysema are also called “pink puffer” or “blue bloaters”

ASTHMA

Asthma is the most common respiratory condition of childhood. Intrinsic asthma is precipitated by exposure to cold temperatures or infection. Extrinsic asthma is often associated with childhood eczema. Assessment/ Symptoms

• WHEEZING
• RESTLESSNESS
• TACHYCARDIA
• TACHYPNEA
• HYPERRESONANCE

♣ STATUS ASTHMATICUS – severe life threatening asthma episode that can  result pneumothorax or acute purmonale.

TREATMENT Medications: Bronchodilator Beta 2 Adregenegic Agonists and Expectorants

EMPHYSEMA – enlargement and destruction of the alveolar tissue. ASSESSMENT: USE OF ACCESSORY MUSCLES DURING RESPIRATION. EARLY SYMPTOM IS DYSPNEA.

BRONCHITIS KNOWN AS “BLUE BLOATERS” BECAUSE OF THE DYSPNEA