6 Respiratory Emergencies and Complications Free Online FlashCards

How do oxygenation and ventilation differ?

Oxygenation is oxygen transfer into the blood; ventilation is air movement that removes carbon dioxide.

What sequence is recommended for severe foreign-body airway obstruction in a conscious adult?

For a conscious adult with severe foreign-body airway obstruction, repeat five back blows followed by five abdominal thrusts; use chest thrusts if abdominal thrusts are unsuitable.

Which findings can signal severe bronchospasm?

Wheezing, prolonged exhalation, cough, and increased work of breathing are common. Very poor air movement or a “silent chest,” worsening fatigue, confusion, or reduced responsiveness are danger signs.

What findings commonly suggest acute pulmonary edema?

Acute pulmonary edema often causes severe breathlessness, low oxygen saturation, crackles, and sometimes pink, frothy sputum.

What is respiratory failure?

Respiratory failure occurs when the respiratory system cannot maintain adequate oxygenation, ventilation, or both.

What SpO₂ targets does one adult acute-care guideline suggest?

One adult acute-care guideline suggests an SpO₂ target of 94–98% for most acutely ill adults and 88–92% for those with COPD or risk of carbon-dioxide retention.

How should assisted bag-mask ventilation be delivered?

Use a bag-mask device with supplemental oxygen when available, aiming for visible chest rise and avoiding rapid or forceful breaths.

What is waveform capnography used for during resuscitation?

Continuous waveform capnography is recommended to confirm and monitor endotracheal-tube placement during resuscitation. A sudden waveform change or loss requires immediate assessment.

What important respiratory function does pulse oximetry not measure?

Pulse oximetry estimates oxygenation but does not measure ventilation. Blood gases and clinical assessment may be needed to evaluate ventilation.

What limitation does supplemental oxygen have?

Supplemental oxygen may improve hypoxemia, but it does not correct inadequate ventilation.

What should you do if an adult with airway obstruction becomes unresponsive?

Begin CPR and look for a visible object before giving breaths. Do not perform blind finger sweeps.

What medications are commonly used for a significant bronchospasm exacerbation?

Give an inhaled short-acting bronchodilator according to protocol. Ipratropium and systemic corticosteroids are commonly added for significant exacerbations.