PATHPHYSIoLoGY AND PHARMACoLoGY

Pathphysiology and Pharmacology

[Name of the writer]

[Name of the institution]

Pathphysiology and Pharmacology

Question 1

In its simplest terms, an exacerbation that Geoff is suffereing from is a worsening of symptoms. In more in-depth terms, a CoPD exacerbation can be defined as “an event in the natural course of the disease characterized by a change in the patient's baseline dyspnea, cough, and/or sputum, that is beyond normal day-to-day variations, is acute in onset and may warrant a change in medication in Geoff with underlying CoPD (Golan, 2005, 33-41).

The main symptom experienced by Geoff of acute exacerbation of CoPD is increased breathlessness which is often accompanied by the following: increased cough and sputum production, change in the color and/or thickness of the sputum, wheezing, chest tightness and fever. For the most part, symptoms of a CoPD exacerbation will remain of the same variations experienced in CoPD patients, but will be worsened due to environmental and other factors. These may include, but are not limited to: an increased amount of cough and sputum productions from usual day-to-day variations (Andreoli, 2001, 507-511). This may be accompanied by a change in the usual appearance of the sputum produced. other symptoms include increased wheezing, fever and a sensation of tightness in the chest. An abrupt worsening in CoPD symptoms may cause rupture of the airways in the lungs, which in turn may cause a spontaneous pneumothorax (Bales, 1962, 157-187).

CoPD exacerbations are debilitating, in and of themselves. Paying attention to Geoff's body, taking better care of him and taking steps towards prevention may ultimately help Geoff to avoid a CoPD exacerbation. For further information about CoPD exacerbation, Geoff must make sure to talk with his primary care provider (Golan, 2005, 33-41).

Initial therapy should focus on maintaining oxygen saturation at 90 percent or higher. oxygen status can be monitored clinically, as well as by pulse oximetry. oxygen supplementation by nasal cannula or face mask is frequently required. With more severe exacerbations, intubation or a positive-pressure mask ventilation method (e.g., continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP]) is often necessary to provide adequate oxygenation. Such interventions are more likely to be needed when hypercapnia is present, exacerbations are frequent or altered mental status is evident (Harvey, 1996, 102-111).

oxygen is a basic human need. Without it, we would not survive. The air that Geoff breathed contained approximately 21% oxygen. For most patients like Geoff with lungs, this is sufficient, but for some people with certain health conditions whose lung function is impaired, the amount of oxygen that is obtained through normal breathing is not enough. Therefore, they require supplemental amounts to maintain normal body function. our health care provider can measure the oxygen levels in Geoff's blood by obtaining an arterial blood gas (ABG) or by using a noninvasive device called a "pulse oximeter." According to the American Thoracic Society, the general goal of treatment is to keep Geoff's oxygen levels usually at, or above, 88%.

oxygen is a medical treatment and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider to use it. Geoff's doctor may ...