Respiratory Care Plans

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a progressive form of acute respiratory failure characterized by dyspnea, decreased pulmonary compliance, and hypoxemia. ARDS often develops after another illness or injury, such as sepsis, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, pneumonia, aspiration, smoke inhalation, near drowning, and severe trauma or shock states. Pathophysiology When lung tissues are injured, the … Read more

Pleural effusion is characterized by the accumulation of excess fluid between the lining of the chest wall and the lining of the lungs, known as the pleural space. Normally, there is a minimal amount of fluid in the pleural space that acts as lubrication to facilitate breathing. There are two main types of pleural effusion: … Read more

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rare, genetic, and progressive disease that primarily affects the pulmonary and digestive system but may involve multiple organ systems. Cystic fibrosis is often diagnosed as a newborn. There is no cure for CF, and patients may have a limited lifespan. Mutations to the CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) gene … Read more

Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the lungs. When in contact with a trigger, the muscles around the airways constrict, and inflammation and mucus in the airways make breathing difficult, causing an asthma attack. There is no cure for asthma, and untreated asthma attacks can be life-threatening, but there are many effective treatments that help … Read more

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term that also includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD causes the airways of the lungs to narrow due to inflammation, mucus, or other damage. This affects the ability to breathe normally and often results in shortness of breath, especially on exertion. COPD is a progressive disease that … Read more

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by a bacteria, virus, or fungus. In healthy individuals, pneumonia is not usually life-threatening and does not require hospitalization. Those at higher risk, such as the very young or old, patients with compromised immune systems, or who already have a respiratory comorbidity, may require inpatient care and … Read more