Question
Maintaining a dry environment
Client scenario: A 61-year-old client with a history of COPD presents to the ED with a 2-day history of increased SOB, cough, and increased sputum production. At baseline, the client has a mild cough with scant sputum production. Denies fever, hemoptysis, and night sweats. In the ED, the client is unable to walk due to SOB, speaks in 1-word sentences, and is utilizing accessory muscles for breathing.
PMH:
- COPD
- 40-year pack history
- Hip fracture
- COPD exacerbations
Meds:
- Albuterol QID PRN
- Theophylline BID
- Ipratropium inhaler
- HCTZ daily
Focused Exam: Accessory muscle use noted, barrel-chested, bilaterally decreased breath sounds w/ expiratory wheezing, cyanosis to nail beds (without clubbing noted). Skin is cool and clammy, diaphoretic.
VS: T 37.0C, HR 133, BP 165/95, RR 34, SaO2
Multiple Choice 1 point
Given the client’s history and presentation, which of the following conditions do you suspect?
COPD exacerbation
Pulmonary embolus
Asthma attack
Pneumothorax
15
Multiple Choice 1 point
Select the answer choice that should go in the blanks:
In COPD, destruction of the alveoli causes
membrane; inhalation
surfactant; exhalation
exhalation; inhalation
16
Multiple Answer 1 point
Which disorders make up chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)? Select all that apply.
Emphysema
Chronic bronchitis
Asthma
Multiple Choice 1 point
Given the client’s history and presentation, which of the following conditions do you suspect?
COPD exacerbation
Pulmonary embolus
Asthma attack
Pneumothorax
15
Multiple Choice 1 point
In COPD, destruction of the alveoli causes
membrane; inhalation
surfactant; exhalation
exhalation; inhalation
16
Multiple Answer 1 point
Emphysema
Chronic bronchitis
Asthma
Ask by Weber Brooks. in the United States
Mar 31,2025
Upstudy AI Solution
Tutor-Verified Answer
Answer
The disorders that make up COPD are Emphysema and Chronic bronchitis.
Solution
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The Deep Dive
COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, primarily results from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most notably from smoking. Historically, emphysema and chronic bronchitis were recognized as distinct conditions, but they’re now classified under the umbrella of COPD due to their shared symptoms and pathophysiology. The devastating effects of these diseases have shaped public health policies, leading to stricter regulations on smoking and air quality to improve life for those at risk.
In real-world applications, managing a COPD exacerbation involves a combination of medication, monitoring, and environmental control. For instance, administering bronchodilators like Albuterol can quickly alleviate shortness of breath. Maintaining a dry environment helps prevent further irritation of the airways, which is crucial, especially during cold and damp weather. Ensuring that patients have access to a humidifier in dry climates or routines that include lung-expansion exercises can also greatly benefit overall lung function.
