Anatomy & Physiology
What is the name of the structure that connects the larynx to the lungs?
The trachea.
What is the hallmark symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
Chronic dyspnea (shortness of breath) and productive cough.
What is the primary definition of pulmonary hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, specifically the pulmonary arteries.
What are the two the primary class of medication used to manage acute asthma attacks?
Bronchodilators, such as albuterol and Steroids
What is the primary purpose of a chest tube?
To remove air, blood, or fluid from the pleural space to help the lung re-expand.
What is a tracheostomyand why would a Pt have one?
surgically created opening in the neck to help with breathing
This occurs when the body produces too much CO2, or when the lungs are unable to adequately remove it.
What is Hypercapnia
Which lung condition is characterized by the inflammation of the bronchi, causing narrowing and increased mucus production?
What is Chronic bronchitis.
Which condition is the most common cause of pulmonary hypertension in the general population?
Left-sided heart failure (causing pulmonary venous hypertension).
Which medication class is commonly used to reduce inflammation in conditions like asthma and COPD?
Corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone).
What are the two common types of chest tubes used?
The large-bore chest tube and the small-bore (Pigtail) chest tube.
Via the trach with the mask removed from the Ambu bag
Which muscles are primarily involved in forced inspiration?
The diaphragm and external intercostal muscles.
What is the main difference between pneumothorax and hemothorax?
Pneumothorax involves air in the pleural space, while hemothorax involves blood in the pleural space.
Name 3 clinical sign might be seen in a patient with advanced/worsening pulmonary hypertension due to right heart failure?
Jugular venous distention (JVD), peripheral edema, or hepatomegaly due to right-sided heart failure.
What is the primary use of furosemide (Lasix) in respiratory care?
To treat pulmonary edema by removing excess fluid through diuresis.
What should a nurse observe in the water seal chamber of a chest tube system?
The tidaling (rise and fall with respiration) and checking for bubbling (indicating a leak).
This device is placed on the tracheostomy tube to help patients speak by allowing air to flow through the vocal cords.
What is a Passy-Muir Valve (PMV)?
What condition occurs when there is fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, potentially requiring a chest tube?
Pleural effusion.
A pulmonary embolism (PE) is most commonly caused by what?
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) that travels to the lungs.
What is the primary treatment approach for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)?
3 medications
Vasodilators (e.g., sildenafil, bosentan), endothelin receptor antagonists, and prostacyclin analogs.
Which two medications are often prescribed to prevent pulmonary embolism after surgery?
Heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin (e.g., enoxaparin).
How ofter is a Chest tube dressing changed and who changes it?
Every 48 hour/PRN and Nursing
What is the rep cap and why do we trail Pt with it.
The primary function of a Red Cap is to cover the opening of the tracheostomy tube and prevent air from passing through and test to see if decannulation is safe
What is the primary function of the pleura?
To reduce friction between the lungs and the chest wall during respiration.
This occurs at least 48 hours after admission and symptoms could include cough, fever, SOB, and confusion.
What is HAP Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia
What is the normal range for pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), and what value is considered pulmonary hypertension?
The normal pulmonary arterial pressure is 15–30 mmHg. Pulmonary hypertension is defined as a mean PAP greater than 25 mmHg at rest.
what type of medication is ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) and how does it help in respiratory care?
It is a anticholinergic bronchodilator that helps open airways.
What should be done if a chest tube becomes dislodged?
Immediately apply sterile gauze over the insertion site, tape it on three sides, and notify the healthcare provider.
Name 4 thing that should be at the bedside when a patient has an artificial Airway
Spare CUFFED trach with an outer diameter = or less than current trach /Suction catheters/Iris scissors/Suction canister and tubing/Saline bullets/10cc syringe/Inner cannulas (if disposable)/ Ambu bag