Atelectasis

Question 1

Sign’s and symptom’s

Answer 1

Cough, fever, Increased HR, Increased RR, Hypoxia, Decreased SpO2

Question 2

Pathophysiology

Answer 2

1. Reduced alveolar ventilation due to compression or absorption
2. Trapped O2 is absorbed in the bloodstream
3. No further O2 is absorbed because of blockage
4. Alveoli collapse leading to acute respiratory distress

Question 3

Cause’s

Answer 3

• Pressure on the lung’s
• Blockage of the air passage
• Supplemental oxygen or inhaled anaesthetic which has had an adverse reaction

Question 4

Nursing diagnose’s

Answer 4

Risk of ineffective gas exchange r/t decreased surface area

Inability to complete ADL’s r/t SOB

Question 5

Assessment’s

Answer 5

Respiratory/posterior chest (IPPA)
Decreased SpO2
Increased anxiety

Question 6

Nursing intervention’s, rationale and evaluation

Answer 6

Monitor patient’s behaviour and mental status for onset of restlessness, agitation and confusion, changes in behaviour and mental status can be early sign’s of impaired gas exchange

Sit patient upright to improve air entry to the lungs and facilitate gas exchange

Administer O2 as prescribed to prevent hypoxia

Encouraging breathing/coughing techniques to clear secretion’s