Pneumonia

Pneumonia

Pneumonia or pneumonitis is an acute inflammation of the lung tissue (lung parenchyma). Pneumonia is resulting from inhalation of infectious agents or noxious fumes or from radiation treatment.  

Classification of Pneumonia

Pneumonia is classified as “community acquired pneumonia (CAP)” or hospital acquired pneumonia (HAP). HAP is also called nosocomial pneumonia.       

Aetiology

1.      Community acquired pneumonia

2.      Hospital acquired pneumonia

            Risk Factors

·         Smoking, air pollution, chronic lung diseases, malnutrition, alcoholism, aspiration

Clinical Manifestations

Typical syndrome is characterized by

·         Sudden onset fever, chills, cough productive of purulent sputum and chest pain

Atypical syndrome is characterized by

·         Gradual onset of dry cough, headache, myalgia, fatigue, sore throat, nausea

Complications of Pneumonia

·         Pleurisy, pleural effusion, lung abscess,  empyema, pericarditis, arthritis

Management/Nursing interventions  

1.      Maintaining effective airway clearance

2.      Facilitate breathing

3.      Administration of medication and treatment

4.      Administering oxygen therapy

5.      Promoting comfort

6.      Preventing spread of infection

7.      Facilitate learning and promote adequate hydration and nutrition