Asthma Askep Inggris
Asthma Askep Inggris
Asthma Askep Inggris
Pathophysiology
The underlying pathophysiology in asthma is reversible and diffuse airway
inflammation that leads to airway narrowing.
Activation. When the mast cells are activated, it releases several
chemicals called mediators.
Perpetuation.These chemicals perpetuate the inflammatory response,
causing increased blood flow, vasoconstriction,, fluid leak from the
vasculature, attraction of white blood cells to the area, and
bronchoconstriction.
Bronchoconstriction. Acute bronchoconstriction due to allergens
results from a release of mediators from mast cells that directly contract
the airway.
Progression. As asthma becomes more persistent, the inflammation
progresses and other factors may be involved in the airflow limitation.
Schematic Diagram
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Causes
Despite increased knowledge on the pathology of asthma and the development of
improved medications and management plans, the death rate from the disease
continues to rise. Here are some of the factors that influence the development of
asthma.
Allergy. Allergy is the strongest predisposing factor for asthma.
Chronic exposure to airway irritants. Irritants can be seasonal
(grass, tree, and weed pollens) or perennial (mold, dust, roaches,
animal dander).
Exercise. Too much exercise can also cause asthma.
Stress/ Emotional upset. This can trigger constriction of the airway
leading to asthma.
Medications. Certain medications can trigger asthma.
Clinical Manifestations
The signs and symptoms of asthma can be easily identified, so once the following
symptoms are observed, a visit to the physician is necessary.
Most common symptoms of asthma are cough (with or without mucus
production), dyspnea, and wheezing (first on expiration, then possibly
during inspiration as well).
Cough. There are instances that cough is the only symptom.
Prevention
Patients with recurrent asthma should undergo tests to identify the substances
that precipitate the symptoms.
Allergens. Allergens, either seasonal or perennial, can be prevented
through avoiding contact with them whenever possible.
Knowledge. Knowledge is the key to quality asthma care.
Evaluation. Evaluation of impairment and risk are key in the control.
Complications
Complications for asthma include the following:
Medical Management
Immediate intervention may be necessary, because continuing and progressive
dyspnea leads to increased anxiety, aggravating the situation.
Pharmacologic Therapy
Short-acting beta2 adrenergic agonists. These are the medications
of choice for relief of acute symptoms and prevention of exerciseinduced asthma.
Peak flow meters. Peak flow meters measure the highest airflow
during a forced expiration.
Daily peak flow monitoring. This is recommended for patients who
meet one or more of the following criteria: have moderate or severe
persistent asthma, have poor perception of changes in airflow or
worsening symptoms, have unexplained response to environmental or
occupational exposures, or at the discretion of the clinician or patient.
Function. If peak flow monitoring is used, it helps measure asthma
severity and, when added to symptom monitoring, indicates the current
degree of asthma control.
Nursing Management
The immediate care of patients with asthma depend on the severity of the
symptoms.
Nursing Assessment
Assessment of a patient with asthma includes the following:
Assess the patients respiratory status by monitoring the severity of the
symptoms.
Assess for breath sounds.
Assess the patients peak flow.
Assess the level of oxygen saturation through the pulse oximeter.
Monitor the patients vital signs.
Nursing Diagnosis
Based on the data gathered, the nursing diagnoses appropriate for the patient
with asthma include:
Ineffective airway clearance related to increased production of mucus
and bronchospasm.
Impaired gas exchange related to altered delivery of inspired O2.
Anxiety related to perceived threat of death.
Nursing Interventions
The nurse generally performs the following interventions:
Assess history. Obtain a history of allergic reactions to medications
before administering medications.
Assess respiratory status. Assess the patients respiratory status by
monitoring the severity of symptoms, breath sounds, peak flow, pulse
oximetry, and vital signs.
Assess medications. Identify medications that the patient is currently
taking. Administer medications as prescribed and monitor the patients
responses to those medications; medications may include
an antibiotic if the patient has an underlying respiratory infection.
Pharmacologic therapy. Administer medications as prescribed and
monitor patients responses to medications.
Fluid therapy. Administer fluids if the patient is dehydrated.
Evaluation
To determine the effectiveness of the plan of care, evaluation must be performed.
The following must be evaluated:
Maintenance of airway patency.
Expectoration or clearance of secretions.
Absence /reduction of congestion with breath sound clear, noiseless
respirations, and improved oxygen exchange.
Verbalized understanding of causes and therapeutic management
regimen.
Demonstrated behaviors to improve or maintain clear airway.
Documentation Guidelines
Documentation is a necessary part of the nursing care provided, and the
following data must be documented:
Related factors for individual client.
Breath sounds, presence and character of secretions, and use of
accessory muscles for breathing.