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