Chapter 27: Alterations of Pulmonary Function Huether & McCance: Understanding Pathophysiology, 6th Edition

A 10-year-old develops pneumonia. Physical exam reveals subcostal and intercostal retractions. The child reports that breathing is difficult with feelings that, "I cannot get enough air." What term should the nurse use to document this condition? a.Cyanosis b.Dyspnea c.Hyperpnea d.Orthopnea - B. Dyspnea Dyspnea is defined as "a subjective experience of breathing discomfort that consists of qualitatively distinct sensations that vary in intensity." Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration to the skin. Hyperpnea is an increased ventilatory rate and orthopnea is dyspnea that occurs when an individual lies flat. A 10-year-old is brought to the ER with prolonged bronchospasm and severe hypoxemia. The symptomology supports which diagnosis? a. Exercise-induced asthma b. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) c. Status asthmaticus d. Bronchiectasis - C. Status asthmaticu