Asthma Pathochart

This nursing cheatsheet will help you learn about asthma, a chronic reactive airway disease characterized by airway hyperreactivity, inflammation, and reversible airflow obstruction. Asthma's pathophysiology is complex, involving airway inflammation, constriction/obstruction, and overresponsive bronchi​​. Clinically, asthma presents with chest tightness, cough, increased work of breathing, and wheezing, which may be audible without a stethoscope​​. During assessment, healthcare providers may note crackles on auscultation, prolonged expiratory time, and diminished lower lobe breath sounds. Signs of hypoxia and impending respiratory failure include a silent chest, restlessness, somnolence, decreased respiratory effort, bradycardia, and periodic apnea​​​​. Management involves monitoring the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and medications like short-acting beta agonists, anticholinergics, corticosteroids, and magnesium sulfate are used for treatment. The delivery of these medications can be through metered dose inhalers (MDIs), dry powder inhalers, or nebulizers​​​​​​. Patient education focuses on avoiding allergens/triggers and adhering to medication regimens​