CHAPTER 2 Respiratory System^117
results are returned. Patients may need bronchodilators to help open the
airways.
- Administer oxygen as needed.
- For bacterial infections, administer antibiotics such as macrolides (azithro-
mycin, clarithromycin), fluoroquinolones (levofloxacin, moxifloxacin),
beta-lactams (amoxicillin/clavulanate, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, cefuroxime
axetil, cefpodoxime, ampicillin/sulbactam), or ketolide (telithromycin). - Administer antipyretics when fever >101 for patient comfort:
- acetaminophen, ibuprofen
- Administer brochodilators to keep airways open, enhance airflow if needed:
- albuterol, metaproterenol, levalbuterol via nebulizer or metered dose
inhaler
- albuterol, metaproterenol, levalbuterol via nebulizer or metered dose
- Increase fluid intake to help loosen secretions and prevent dehydration.
- Instruct the patient on how to use the incentive spirometer to encourage deep
breathing; monitor progress.
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Risk for aspiration
- Impaired ventilation
- Ineffective airway clearance
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Monitor respiration for rate, effort, use of accessory muscles, skin color, and
breath sounds. - Record fluid intake and output for differences, signs of dehydration.
- Record sputum characteristics for changes in color, amount, and consistency.
- Properly dispose of sputum.
- Explain to the patient:
- Take adequate fluids—3 liters per day—to prevent excess fluid loss through
the respiratory system with exhalation. - Use of incentive spirometer.
- Take adequate fluids—3 liters per day—to prevent excess fluid loss through