SIMPLE FACTS ABOUT RESPIRATORY DISTRESS

What is special about the heart and lungs?

The heart and lungs depend on each other and
have to work together. The heart depends on
the lungs for oxygen rich blood, and the lungs
depend on the heart to pump blood around the
 body. 

If the left side of the heart fails, blood will backup
 into the lungs, causing difficulty breathing.

Causes of respiratory distress include:

- Pneumonia, COPD, ARDS, trauma,
- congestive heart failure,
- Myocardial Infarction, and more.

Regardless of the cause, poor oxygenation to the lungs
results in anxiety. Breathing is compromised, and intubation,
mechanical ventilation, or/and a higher level of care may be 
needed to improve oxygenation to the lungs and body tissues,
during this crucial period.
Enjoy watching the videos:



Scenario: John was admitted to the ICU with
difficulty breathing.He was intubated and placed
on mechanical ventilation.

Patient and family education will help to decrease
anxiety.Patient restraints may be necessary to
prevent self extubation.

The nurse is responsible for evaluation and documentation
of patient progress based on the plan of care.
Learn more:
The New nurse and care planning

Learn more : The Nursing Process



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