emphysema
is a lung condition that causes SOB; alveoli are damaged that rupture over time — creating larger air spaces instead of many small ones; this reduces the surface area of the lungs and, in turn, the amount of oxygen that reaches your bloodstream.
Empyema
extra fluid in the pleural space can also become infected, resulting in a buildup of pus; alongside fever
Bronchietasis
is a chronic, irreversible dilation of the bronchi and bronchioles that results from destruction of muscles and elastic connective tissue
characteristics include: chronic cough, lots of sputum, clubbing of fingers, hemoptysis
Spirometry
used to evaluate airflow obstruction, which is determined by the ratio of forced expiration volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity
(anything less than 70% is sign of obstructive lung disease)
hemoptysis
coughing up blood from the lungs
Cystic Fibrosis
is an inherited disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body; affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices
common characteristics: bronchial mucus plugging, inflammation, and eventual bronchiectasis
fremitus
palpation of the chest wall to detect changes in the intensity of vibrations created with certain spoken words in a constant tone and voice indicating underlying lung pathology
- is decreased in bronchial asthma, pneumothorax, atelectasis, emphysema, or bronchial obstruction due to air trapping and decreased density of lung parenchyma
Spiral Computed Tomography (CT)
most commonly used test to diagnose pulmonary emboli; contrast media may be given through IV
chest x-ray
preparation includes undressing and removing any metal
Bronchoscopy
used to detect changes in the bronchial tree, not to assess for vascular changes, and the patient should be NPO for 6-12 hours before the procedure
Positron emission tomography (PET)
scans are most useful in determining the presence of malignancy; and a radioactive glucose preparation is used
central cyanosis
prolonged hypoxia; late sign of respiratory distress. Look at nose, oral mucosa, lips
Peripheral cyanosis
vasoconstriction, vascular occlusion or reduced cardiac output; look at fingers, toes
bronchial (auscultation)
trachea; high pitch, loud intensity: blowing/hollow
bronchovesicular
sternum, between scapula; moderate pitch, moderate intensity
Vesicular
peripheral lung; low pitch, soft intensity, gentle rustling/breezy sound
dyspnea
difficult or labored breathing