NAME 

           : Bamey Ganado

SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

Nursing Care for Patients with Respiratory Disorders

I. Introduction

Respiratory disorders refer to a group of conditions that affect the lungs and airways, making it
difficult for individuals to breathe properly. These disorders can range from mild to severe and
can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Respiratory disorders are prevalent worldwide,
with millions of people suffering from conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD), pneumonia, tuberculosis (TB), and acute respiratory distress syndrome
(ARDS).

As a result, nursing care is crucial in the management and treatment of patients with respiratory
disorders. Nurses play a vital role in assessing patients, administering medications, implementing
respiratory therapies, educating patients, and providing psychosocial support. This lecture will
discuss nursing care for patients with respiratory disorders, including assessment, interventions,
patient education, interprofessional collaboration, and future directions in respiratory care.

II. Assessment of Respiratory Disorders

Assessment is the first step in the management of patients with respiratory disorders. It involves
obtaining a comprehensive medical history and performing a physical examination to identify the
underlying cause of the respiratory problem. Diagnostic tests may also be ordered to confirm the
diagnosis.

A. History-taking and Physical Examination During the history-taking phase, the nurse should
ask the patient about their symptoms, including the onset, duration, and severity. The nurse
should also inquire about any past respiratory illnesses, allergies, smoking history, and
medication use. The physical examination should include a thorough inspection of the chest,
evaluation of respiratory rate and pattern, auscultation of breath sounds, and assessment of
oxygen saturation levels.

B. Diagnostic Tests for Respiratory Disorders Diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, CT scans,
pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas analysis, and sputum cultures may be ordered to
confirm the diagnosis of a respiratory disorder.

Common Respiratory Disorders and Their Assessment The assessment of respiratory disorders
depends on the specific condition. Common respiratory disorders include:

 Asthma: assessment includes monitoring respiratory rate, peak expiratory flow rate, and
use of accessory muscles.
NAME            : Bamey Ganado
SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

 COPD: assessment includes monitoring respiratory rate, lung sounds, and oxygen
saturation levels.
 Pneumonia: assessment includes monitoring respiratory rate, lung sounds, and
temperature.
 TB: Assessment includes monitoring respiratory rate and lung sounds and evaluating for
signs of systemic infection.
 ARDS: assessment includes monitoring respiratory rate, oxygen saturation levels, and
lung sounds.

Overall, assessment of respiratory disorders is essential to developing an appropriate nursing

care plan to manage the patient's symptoms and improve their respiratory function.

III. Nursing Interventions for Patients with Respiratory Disorders

Nursing interventions for patients with respiratory disorders aim to improve respiratory function,
manage symptoms, and prevent complications. The following are common nursing interventions
that may be used to manage patients with respiratory disorders:

A. Oxygen Therapy Supplemental oxygen may be administered to patients with respiratory

distress to improve oxygenation. The nurse should monitor oxygen saturation levels and adjust
the oxygen flow rate as needed.

B. Airway Management Airway management involves the use of techniques to clear secretions,
maintain airway patency, and improve ventilation. Techniques include coughing and deep
breathing exercises, suctioning, and the use of mechanical ventilation.

C. Medication Administration Medications may be administered to manage respiratory

symptoms and improve lung function. Examples include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and
antibiotics.

D. Chest Physiotherapy Chest physiotherapy involves techniques to improve lung expansion and
airway clearance. Examples include chest percussion and vibration, postural drainage, and
breathing exercises.

E. Positioning and Mobility Proper positioning and mobility can improve respiratory function
and prevent complications such as pneumonia. The nurse should encourage patients to sit upright
or in a semi-fowler's position, and encourage mobility and exercise as tolerated.
NAME            : Bamey Ganado
SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

F. Nutrition and Fluid Management Patients with respiratory disorders may require increased
calorie and fluid intake to meet their energy needs and prevent dehydration. The nurse should
monitor the patient's nutritional and fluid status and provide appropriate interventions as needed.

G. Psychosocial Support Patients with respiratory disorders may experience anxiety, depression,
and social isolation. The nurse should provide emotional support, educate the patient and their
family about the condition, and refer the patient to appropriate resources as needed.

Overall, nursing interventions for patients with respiratory disorders are tailored to the patient's
specific condition and aim to improve respiratory function, manage symptoms, and prevent
complications.

IV. Nursing Care for Specific Respiratory Disorders

Nursing care for specific respiratory disorders may vary depending on the condition. The
following are examples of nursing care for common respiratory disorders:

A. Asthma

 Monitor respiratory rate, peak expiratory flow rate, and use of accessory muscles.
 Administer bronchodilators and corticosteroids as ordered.
 Educate the patient about triggers and how to avoid them.
 Teach the patient the proper use of inhalers and spacers.
 Develop an asthma action plan with the patient and their healthcare provider.

B. COPD

 Monitor respiratory rate, lung sounds, and oxygen saturation levels.

 Administer bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy as ordered.
 Encourage smoking cessation.
 Teach the patient breathing exercises and energy-conservation techniques.
 Refer the patient to pulmonary rehabilitation as needed.

C. Pneumonia

 Monitor respiratory rate, lung sounds, and temperature.

 Administer antibiotics and oxygen therapy as ordered.
 Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises.
 Educate the patient about the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics.
 Encourage adequate fluid intake to help thin secretions.
NAME            : Bamey Ganado
SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

D. tuberculosis (TB)

 Monitor respiratory rate and lung sounds, and evaluate for signs of systemic infection.
 Administer anti-tuberculosis medications as ordered.
 Educate the patient about the importance of medication compliance and potential side
effects.
 Encourage coughing and deep breathing exercises.
 Implement appropriate isolation precautions to prevent transmission.

E. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

 Monitor respiratory rate, oxygen saturation levels, and lung sounds.

 Administer oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation as ordered.
 Administer sedation and analgesics to improve patient comfort.
 Monitor for complications such as pneumothorax and ventilator-associated pneumonia.
 Work closely with the interprofessional team to manage the patient's care.

Overall, nursing care for specific respiratory disorders should be tailored to the patient's
individual needs and treatment plan. The nurse should monitor the patient's symptoms,
administer appropriate medications and therapies, and provide education and support to the
patient and their family.

V. Patient Education for Respiratory Disorders

Patient education is an essential component of nursing care for patients with respiratory
disorders. The following are key topics that should be covered during patient education:

A. Medication Use

 Teach the patient about the purpose and potential side effects of their medications.
 Instruct the patient on proper medication administration, including how to use inhalers
and spacers.
 Encourage the patient to keep a record of their medication use and refill prescriptions as
needed.

B. Disease Management

 Educate the patient about their respiratory disorder, including symptoms, triggers, and
treatment options.
 Teach the patient how to monitor their symptoms and when to seek medical attention.
NAME            : Bamey Ganado
SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

 Encourage the patient to follow their treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments.

C. Lifestyle Modifications

 Teach the patient about lifestyle modifications that can improve respiratory function,
such as smoking cessation, a healthy diet, and exercise.
 Encourage the patient to avoid triggers, such as allergens and pollutants.
 Instruct the patient on proper hand hygiene to prevent infection.

D. Oxygen Therapy

 Educate the patient about the purpose and use of oxygen therapy.
 Instruct the patient on how to use oxygen equipment safely and effectively.
 Teach the patient about potential side effects of oxygen therapy and when to seek medical
attention.

E. Prevention of Complications

 Teach the patient about potential complications of respiratory disorders, such as

pneumonia and exacerbations.
 Instruct the patient on how to prevent complications, such as adequate fluid intake and
proper hygiene practices.
 Encourage the patient to seek medical attention if they experience any new or worsening
symptoms.

Overall, patient education is crucial for promoting self-management and improving outcomes for
patients with respiratory disorders. The nurse should provide education in a clear and
understandable manner, using visual aids and other resources as needed.

VI. Interprofessional Collaboration for Patients with Respiratory Disorders

Interprofessional collaboration is vital in the management of patients with respiratory disorders.

The following healthcare professionals may be involved in the care of these patients:

A. Pulmonologist

 specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disorders.

 works with the primary care provider to develop a treatment plan for the patient.
 may order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and recommend interventions such as
oxygen therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation.
NAME            : Bamey Ganado
SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

B. Respiratory Therapist

 provides respiratory care and therapy to patients with respiratory disorders.

 administers treatments such as oxygen therapy, nebulizers, and chest physiotherapy.
 assists with mechanical ventilation and arterial blood gas sampling.

C. Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant

 works with the primary care provider and pulmonologist to manage the patient's care.
 prescribes medications and treatments as needed.
 monitors the patient's condition and communicates with the healthcare team regarding
any changes.

D. Primary Care Provider

 coordinates the patient's overall care and communicates with other healthcare
professionals involved in the patient's care.
 prescribes medications and orders diagnostic tests as needed.
 refers the patient to specialists as appropriate.

E. Physical Therapist

 assists with pulmonary rehabilitation, which may include exercise, breathing exercises,
and education on self-management.
 works with the patient to improve physical endurance and strength, which can improve
respiratory function.

Overall, interprofessional collaboration is essential to ensuring that patients with respiratory

disorders receive comprehensive and coordinated care. Communication and collaboration
between healthcare professionals can improve patient outcomes and help prevent complications.
The nurse plays a vital role in facilitating communication and collaboration among the healthcare
team.

VII. Conclusion

In conclusion, nursing care for patients with respiratory disorders involves assessment, nursing
interventions, patient education, and interprofessional collaboration. An accurate assessment of
the patient's respiratory status is crucial for developing a care plan that addresses the patient's
individual needs. Nursing interventions such as airway management, oxygen therapy, and
pulmonary hygiene can help improve respiratory function and prevent complications. Patient
NAME            : Bamey Ganado
SEMESTER   : 2nd SEMESTER,2023
COURSE        : HUMAN BIOLOGY BL133
 

education is crucial for promoting self-management and improving outcomes, and

interprofessional collaboration is essential for ensuring comprehensive and coordinated care. By
providing holistic nursing care, nurses can help improve the quality of life for patients with
respiratory disorders.