Question

75 year old African American with COPD, Congestive Heart Failure, and Diabetes. History of smoking for 60 years 2 ppd, worked in the coal mines all his adult life, and live in an old house with asbestos tiles. Has been admitted to the hospital for dyspnea, hypoxia, and crackles bilaterally in all lobes. He has a productive cough with frothy,blood tinged sputum. His VS are:B/P 180/90,Resp.24, Pulse 120, Temp 99.0 F.

As his nurse you will do a full assessment, and what your nursing diagnoses, and interventions would be on admission. Use your terms in Chapter 12 in your answer. This is a narrative answer so be very thorough in your assessment and interventions. Write using professional language.

Answer 1

The patient history of work in coal mines, stay in asbestos home and habit of smoking may lead to severe lung disorder and even cancer. Also patient is associated with COPD, heart failure with diabetes.

Being a nurse health education to avoid or reduce further complications is remarkable.

Firstly the patient should be asked to stop smoking since hypoxia is severe in this patient. Also breathing exercise to improve the function of lungs is required.

Secondly, the living environment to be changed and suggestion given to opt for old age home or care home in case no other relatives place to stay. Asbestos worsen the condition of airway pattern. The dust generated from it, may even be carcinogenic.

Dietary pattern with high protein and vitamins is required to boost the immunity and lung functioning. Also person has to undergo regular medical check ups to maintain vitals and health status.