Pathophysiology | Final Exam |
Latest - Rasmussen
Question:
Pneumonia
Answer:
Acute inflammation of the lung parenchyma, typically caused by infection.
This leads to alveolar space filling with exudate (fluid and cellular debris,
resulting in consolidation and impaired gas exchange.
Question:
Etiology of Pneumonia
Answer:
Most commonly bacterial (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae), viral (e.g.,
influenza, RSV), or fungal. Aspiration of gastric contents can also cause
chemical pneumonitis, often complicated by bacterial infection.
,Question:
Signs/ symptoms of Pneumonia
Answer:
Cough (often productive with colored sputum), fever, chills, dyspnea,
tachypnea, pleuritic chest pain, fatigue, and crackles on auscultation.
Elderly patients may present with altered mental status and less prominent
fever.
Question:
Nurse teaching for Pneumonia
Answer:
Emphasize strict adherence to antibiotic regimen, adequate hydration,
deep breathing and coughing exercises to clear secretions, importance of
rest, and vaccination (influenza and pneumococcal) for prevention.
Question:
Asthma
Answer:
Chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by bronchial
hyperresponsiveness, reversible airflow obstruction, and airway
remodeling. Inflammation leads to bronchoconstriction, increased mucus
production, and swelling of bronchial walls.
,Question:
Etiology of Asthma
Answer:
A combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.
Common triggers include allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander),
irritants (smoke, pollution, strong odors), exercise, cold air, respiratory
infections, and certain medications.
Question:
Signs/ symptoms of Asthma
Answer:
Recurrent episodes of wheezing, dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest
tightness, and coughing, especially at night or in the early morning.
Symptoms can vary in severity and frequency.
Question:
Nurse teaching for Asthma
Answer:
Educate on trigger identification and avoidance, proper use of inhalers
(rescue and controller medications, including use of spacers), development
and adherence to a personal asthma action plan, recognizing signs of
worsening symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention auring
exacerbations.
, Question:
Emphysema
Answer:
A type of COPD characterized by permanent enlargement of airspaces
distal to the terminal bronchioles, accompanied by destruction of alveolar
walls and without obvious fibrosis. This leads to loss of elastic recoil, air
trapping, and impaired gas exchange.
Question:
Etiology of Emphysema
Answer:
Primarily caused by long-term exposure to inhaled irritants, most
commonly cigarette smoke. Genetic factors, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin
deficiency, can also lead to early-onset emphysema.
Question:
Signs/ Symptoms of Emphysema
Answer:
Progressive dyspnea that worsens with exertion, a characteristic "barrel
chest" due to hyperinflation, pursed-lip breathing, minimal cough (often
non-productive), weight loss, and use of accessory muscles for breathing.