Nursing Lecture on Pneumonia by Nurse Anna

Introduction

• Presented by Nurse Anna from nurse study.net
• Free pneumonia concept map available in the description
• Format includes nursing care plans, nursing diagnosis, concept maps, and test questions

Pathophysiology of Pneumonia

• Inflammation and infection of the alveoli (lungs)
• Common pathogens: bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumonia), viruses, fungi
• Fluid and pus fill the alveoli reducing oxygen exchange

Signs and Symptoms

• Cough: productive (yellow/green sputum) or dry (viral)
• Fever and chills: treated with Tylenol and antipyretics
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain (especially when breathing or coughing)
• Fatigue

Diagnosis

• Lab tests:
  • Blood cultures
  • Sputum analysis
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): focus on white count
  • Arterial Blood Gases (ABG)
• Imaging:
  • Chest X-ray
  • Possible CT scan

High-Risk Groups

• Very young or elderly
• Smokers and individuals with chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD)
• Immunocompromised individuals
• Individuals with recent respiratory infections

Nursing Implications

• Potential complications: respiratory failure, sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pleural effusions

Treatments

• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
• Antivirals for viral pneumonia
• Antipyretics for fever management
• Oxygen therapy
• Fluid management: ensure no fluid restrictions exist

Common Nursing Diagnosis

• Ineffective airway clearance related to increased secretions and bronchial inflammation
• Impaired gas exchange related to altered oxygenation supply and alveolar-capillary membrane changes

Nursing Interventions

• Assess respiratory status regularly
• Administer prescribed medications (antibiotics, antipyretics)
• Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises
• Position for maximum ventilation (semi-Fowler's position)
• Hydration to thin secretions

Patient Education

• Importance of completing medication courses fully
• Techniques for coughing and deep breathing
• Smoking cessation advice (including nicotine patches)
• Importance of rest and fluid intake
• When to seek medical attention and involving family members in the education process

Additional Resources

• Visit nurse study.net for more details and resources on pneumonia