Is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that generally follows an upper respiratory tract infection. As a result of this viral (most common) or bacterial infection, the airways become inflamed and irritated, and mucus production increases.
Diffuse rhonchi and crackles(contrast with localized crackles usually heard with pneumonia).
Diagnostic Evaluation:
Chest X-ray may rule out pneumonia. In bronchitis, films show no evidence of lung infiltrates or consolidation.
Therapeutic Intervention:
Chest physiotherapy to mobilize secretions, if indicated.
Hydration to liquefy secretions.
Pharmacologic Interventions:
Inhaled bronchodilators to reduce bronchospasm and promote sputum expectoration.
A course of oral antibiotics such as a macrolide may be instituted, but is controversial.
Symptom management for fever and cough.
Nursing Interventions:
Encourage mobilization of secretion through ambulation, coughing, and deep breathing.
Ensure adequate fluid intake to liquefy secretions and prevent dehydration caused by fever and tachypnea.
Encourage rest, avoidance of bronchial irritant, and a good diet to facilitate recovery.
Instruct the patient to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics and explain the effect of meals on drug absorption.
Caution the patient on using over-the-counter cough suppressants, antihistamines, and decongestants, which may cause drying and retention of secretions. However, cough preparations containing the mucolytic guaifenesin may be appropriate.
Advise the patient that a dry cough may persist after bronchitis because of irritation of airways. Suggest avoiding dry environments and using a humidifier at bedside. Encourage smoking cessation.
Teach the patient to recognize and immediately report early signs and symptoms of acute bronchitis.
Advertisements:
Related posts:
Chronic Bronchitis Is an inflammation of the lower airways characterized by...
Posted by Lhynnelli, RN
on Mar 26th, 2009 and filed under Medical Surgical Nursing, Student's Reviewer.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0.
You can leave a response by filling following comment form or trackback to this entry from your site
DISCLAIMER:
Comments expressed in this website are those of the readers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NursingCrib.com or any of its sister sites. NursingCrib.com does not knowingly publish false information and may not be held liable for the views of readers exercising their right to free expression.
All articles in this site was meant for educational purposes only. We don’t claim full ownership of the videos, pictures and some articles posted on this site. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
[...] Acute Bronchitis Chronic Bronchitis [...]
[...] ACUTE BRONCHITIS [...]