Respiratory System Essay Discussion Paper

Respiratory System Essay Discussion Paper

Question

Answer the following questions about the respiratory system, using the included case study, for this week’s discussion. 1. Explain what ARDS is. 2. Explain what is significant with her lab results using the ABG normal values and the nursing mnemonic ROME which was also referenced in week \# 2 of this course. 3. Explain what an appropriate treatment would be. Case Study: Mrs. Breathless is a 43-year-old female, just getting off the late shift. She reports to the ER in the early morning with shortness of breath. She has cyanosis of the lips. She has had a productive cough for 2 weeks. Her temperature is 102.2 , blood pressure $110/76$, heart rate 108 , respiration 32 , rapid and shallow. Breath sounds are diminished in both bases, with coarse rhonchi in the upper lobes. Chest X-ray indicates bilateral pneumonia. – $\mathrm{ABG}$ (Arterial Blood Gases) Lab results are: pH=7.44PaCO2=28HCO3= low PaO=54​ Note: rhonchi are continuous low pitched rattling lung sounds that often resemble snoring or wheezes. Problems: – $\mathrm{PaCO}2$ is low. – $\mathrm{pH}$ is on the high side of normal, therefore compensated respiratory alkalosis. – Also, $\mathrm{PaO}2$ is low, probably due to mucous displacing air in the alveoli affected by the pneumonia.

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Step 1/2
1 ARDS stands for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, which is a severe lung condition that causes difficulty breathing and can lead to respiratory failure. ARDS occurs when fluid leaks into the lungs, making it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, injury, or inflammation.

2. Mrs. Breathless’ ABG results indicate that she is experiencing compensated respiratory alkalosis, which means her body is trying to compensate for low PaCO2 levels by increasing ph. Additionally, her HCO3 levels are low, indicating that her kidneys are trying to compensate for respiratory alkalosis. Her PaO2 levels are low, which can be attributed to the pneumonia causing a decrease in available air space in the lungs. The nursing mnemonic ROME (Respiratory Opposite, Metabolic Equal) can be used to remember that pH and PaCO2 levels move in opposite directions in respiratory disorders, and pH and HCO3 levels move in the same direction in metabolic disorders.
Step 2/2
3. An appropriate treatment for Mrs. Breathless would include antibiotics to treat the pneumonia, oxygen therapy to improve her oxygen levels, and bronchodilators to help open up her airways. If her respiratory distress worsens, she may need mechanical ventilation to support her breathing. It is important to also monitor her fluid levels to prevent further fluid buildup in her lungs. Additionally, addressing her fever with antipyretic medications and promoting rest can help support her recovery.
Final answer
In summary, Mrs. Breathless presents with symptoms of pneumonia and respiratory distress, and her ABG results indicate compensated respiratory alkalosis, low HCO3 levels, and low PaO2 levels. Treatment should focus on addressing the underlying pneumonia, improving oxygenation, and supporting respiratory function. for better understanding go through the steps.  Respiratory System Essay Discussion Paper