Upper Respiratory Disorders
Common Respiratory Assessment Findings
Pharmacological Treatments for Respiratory
Nursing Actions for Upper Respiratory Disorders
Diagnostics for Upper Respiratory Disorders
100

This is an acute inflammation of the nasal mucosa due to a viral infection. 

What is Viral Rhinitis? 

100

This is often associated with laryngitis or vocal cord strain; if persistent may indicate malignancy. 

What is Voice Hoarseness? 

100

This drug class  mechanism of action blocks histamine at H1 receptor sites to reduce sneezing, nasal drainage, and itching. 

What is an Antihistamine? 

100

This can be done to reduce throat swelling and discomfort. 

What is Warm Saltwater Gargles? 

100

This is a diagnostic test used to confirm strep Group A infections. 

What is a Positive RADT? 

200

This inflammation of the larynx due to infection, overuse, or irritants. 

What is Laryngitis? 

200

This is a high-pitched, musical sound heard during inspiration- upper airway obstruction. 

What is Stridor? 

200

This drug class mechanism of action is to vasoconstrict nasal mucosa to reduce swelling. 

What is are Decongestants? 

200

Rebound congestion, sedation, and/or GI symptoms from medications are called what? 

What is Medication Side Effects? Rebound Congestion (decongestants), Sedation (antihistamines), GI (NSAIDs, antibiotics)

200

This diagnostic test identifies specific pathogens for target treatment; negative result suggests viral etiology. 

What is a Throat Culture? 

300

This is an intermittent airway obstruction during sleep due to soft tissue collapse. 

What is Sleep Apnea? 

300

Redness indicates inflammation and is commonly seen in pharyngitis or tonsilitis. 

What is Throat Erythema? 
300

This drug class mechanism of action is to reduce inflammatory response locally or systemically. 

What are Corticosteroids? 

300

Hand hygiene, mask use, avoiding close contact.

What is Infection Control and Transmission Prevention? 

300

This diagnostic test may show vocal cords, polyps, inflammation, or tumors. 

What is Laryngoscopy? 

400

This is often caused by a streptococcal infection or a viral infection. 

What is Tonsillitis and Adenoiditis? 

400

This is visible bleeding, crusting, or clots in the anterior nares; elevated BP may be a contributing factor. 

What is Epistaxis? 

400

This drug class mechanism of action reduces inflammation and airway constriction by blocking their action at the receptor levels. 

What are Leukotriene Modifiers? 

400

This adds moisture to inspired air or the use of cool mist humidifiers or steam inhalation. 

What is Humidification? 

400

This diagnostic test is used to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. 

What is Polysomnography? 

500

This is inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, usually from obstruction of drainage. 

What is Rhinosinusitis? 

500

This is a disorder that may present with a sore throat, dry cough, and progressive hoarseness with mild erythema of the pharynx. 

What is Acute Laryngitis? 

500

This drug group are used for maintenance to promote bronchodilation. 

What are LABA's (long acting beta-2 agonists)

500

This reduces postnasal drip and facilitates drainage in the sinusitis or congestion. 

What is Elevate the Head of Bed? 

500

This diagnostic test reveals fluid levels, mucosal swelling and/or obstruction. 

What is a CT of the sinuses?