(^98) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
TREATMENT
Treatment is focused on re-inflation of the involved area of the lung, removing the
cause of obstruction, and the delivery of adequate oxygen. The extent of the treat-
ment depends on the area of the lung involved and the cause.
- Administer oxygen to meet body’s demand.
- Administer mucolytics to help loosen or thin secretions:
- acetylcystine, inhaled
- guaifenesin, oral
- Administer bronchodilators to open airways:
- albuterol
- levalbuterol
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Impaired gas exchange
- Risk for infection
- Ineffective tissue perfusion
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Cough and deep-breathing exercise every 2 hours to prevent a further area of
atelectasis. - Instruct the patient to use the incentive spirometer every 2 hours to encour-
age deep breathing and monitor progress. - Provide humidified air.
- Monitor breath sounds for abnormalities such as diminished sounds.
- Monitor mechanical ventilation if needed. If a large area of the lung is affected,
respiratory support may be needed. - Explain to the patient:
- How to perform coughing and deep-breathing exercises.
- Proper use of incentive spirometer.