4 Pneumonia Free Online FlashCards

What defines community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)?

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) develops outside a hospital or healthcare facility.

How does aspiration pneumonia develop?

Aspiration pneumonia follows inhalation of material from the mouth or stomach into the lower airways. Risk rises with impaired swallowing or consciousness.

How might pneumonia present atypically in older adults?

Older adults may show confusion, weakness, or functional decline instead of prominent fever.

How is suspected CAP generally confirmed in adults?

In adults, suspected CAP is generally confirmed by a new pulmonary infiltrate on imaging together with compatible symptoms and signs.

What does pulse oximetry assess in suspected pneumonia?

Pulse oximetry assesses oxygenation; hypoxemia is a concerning sign that can affect the need for support or escalation of care.

What major criteria suggest severe CAP?

A major criterion is septic shock requiring vasopressors or respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. Severe CAP is also suggested by at least three minor criteria.

When are cultures especially important in pneumonia?

Cultures are especially important in severe disease or when resistant pathogens are a concern; they are not routinely needed for every mild outpatient case.

Does a positive viral test rule out bacterial coinfection?

A positive viral test does not by itself rule out bacterial coinfection.

What are core supportive measures for pneumonia?

Stabilize and support the patient: provide oxygen for hypoxemia, fluids when appropriate, symptom relief, and respiratory support if needed.

When are antibiotics used, and what guides empiric selection?

Use antibiotics when bacterial pneumonia is suspected or cannot safely be excluded in a patient requiring hospital care. Choose empiric therapy based on setting, severity, patient risks, prior microbiology, and local guidance.

What are important complications of pneumonia?

Complications include respiratory failure or ARDS, sepsis or septic shock, pleural effusion or empyema, lung abscess, and bacteremia.

When is pneumonia classified as hospital-acquired (HAP)?

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) develops at least 48 hours after hospital admission and was not incubating at admission.