WEEK 6 PNEUMONIA Flashcards
What is the definition of pneumonia?
Acute inflammation of the lungs
What are 2 reasons children are at risk for pneumonia?
- Immature immune system
- Small airways permit bacterial entrapment
People on which medical treatments should be considered high risk for pneumonia?
Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, corticosteroids
What medical treatment can be administered to prevent pneumonia in at-risk people?
Pneumococcal vaccine
What are 3 ways hospital acquired pneumonia differs from community acquired?
- Treated with IV antibiotics, while CAP treated with oral
- Sputum sent for culture
- Usually occurs >48 hrs after admission
What is the sputum for acid-fast bacilli test used to diagnose?
Tuberculosis
What is the definitive test for tuberculosis?
Sputum culture
How long does C&S usually take?
72 hours
What is the purpose of a gram stain test?
To identify quickly (same day) if the pathogen is gram positive so a broad spectrum antibiotic can be ordered
How does pneumonia affect a patient’s electrolytes?
Elevated Na+ and Cl- due to dehydration (K+ not affected)
What is the normal range for urine specific gravity, and what would it indicate?
1.010–1.025
Indicates patient’s hydration status
If the urine specific gravity is high, what does it indicate?
Dehydration
Why may the RBC count and Hgb of a patient with pneumonia be elevated, and what should be kept in mind?
Dehydration, but patient may actually be anemic
What is C-reactive protein a measure of?
Acute inflammation
Why should the nurse monitor a patient with ineffective breathing pattern for restlessness and anxiety?
Signs of hypoxia
