Students will:
Analyze the pathophysiology of respiratory alterations
Evaluate the impact of patient factors on respiratory disorders
Analyze pathophysiological mechanisms of chronic asthma and acute asthma exacerbation
Evaluate the impact of patient factors on chronic asthma and acute asthma exacerbation
Evaluate clinical considerations of chronic asthma and acute asthma exacerbation
Understand and apply key terms, concepts, and principles related to alterations of the respiratory system
Required Readings
Huether, S. E., & McCance, K. L. (2017). Understanding pathophysiology (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby.
Chapter 26, “Structure and Function of the Pulmonary System”
This chapter provides information relating to the structure and function of the pulmonary system to illustrate normal pulmonary function. It focuses on gas transport to build the foundation for examining alterations of pulmonary function.
Chapter 27, “Alterations of Pulmonary Function”
This chapter examines clinical manifestations of pulmonary alterations and disorders of the chest wall and pleura. It covers the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, evaluation, and treatment of obstructive lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
Chapter 28, “Alterations of Pulmonary Function in Children”
Discussion: Respiratory Alterations
In clinical settings, patients often present with various respiratory symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and wheezing. While identifying a symptom’s underlying illness can be challenging, it is essential because even basic symptoms such as persistent coughing can be a sign of a more severe disorder. Advanced practice nurses must be able to differentiate between moderate and severe respiratory disorders, as well as properly diagnose and prescribe treatment for their patients. For this reason, you must have an understanding of the pathophysiology of respiratory disorders.
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To Prepare
Review the three scenarios, as well as Chapter 27 and Chapter 28 in the Huether and McCance text.
Select one of the scenarios and consider the respiratory disorder and underlying alteration associated with the type of cough described.
Identify the pathophysiology of the alteration that you associated with the cough.
Select two of the following factors: genetics, gender, ethnicity, age, or behavior. Reflect on how the factors you selected might impact the disorder.
By Day 3
Post a description of the disorder and underlying respiratory alteration associated with the type of cough in your selected scenario. Then, explain the pathophysiology of the respiratory alteration. Finally, explain how the factors you selected might impact the disorder.
