5. Asthma
Epithelial damage
Causes airway hyperresponsiveness,
loss of barrier function allowing
penetration of allergens, loss of enzymes
that break down inflammatory mediators,
and exposure of sensory nerves leading
to reflex neural effects on the airway
16. Management
In an acute asthma attack
•Assess airway patency
•Administer humidified oxygen by
nasal prongs or face mask
•Administer quick-relief (rescue)
medications
17. Management
In an acute asthma attack
•Continuously monitor respiratory status,
pulse oximetry, and color
Be alert to decreased wheezing or a silent
chest. This may signal further narrowing of
airways resulting to the inability to move air
18. Management
In an acute asthma attack
•Initiate and intravenous line to correct
dehydration, acidosis, or electrolyte
imbalances
•Do a chest xray
•Obtain samples for arterial blood
gases and serum electrolytes
20. References
• Powerpoint template by Medicine PPT
• Asthma inhaler, the different types and tips on how to use them
properly. Retrieved December 26, 2012, from
http://www.asthmasymptoms86.com/asthmainhaler.html#.UNp
NSuRkyDQ
• Dust allergy testing. Retrieved Decmber 26, 2012, from
http://dustallergy.org/dust-allergy-testing/
• Kaufman, G. (2011). Asthma: Pathophysiology, diagnosis and
management. Nursing Standard, 26(5), 48-56.
• Silvestri, L. (2006). Comprehensive review for the NCLEX-RN
examination (Third ed.). Singapore: Elsevier.
• wise GEEK. Pathology of asthma. Retrieved December 26,
2012, from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-causes-chest-
cramps.htm
