NR 507 Week 3 Alterations in Pulmonary Function Chamberlain

Week 3 Alterations in Pulmonary Function  Obstructive Lung Disease vs. Restrictive Disease  COPD  Asthma  Interstitial Lung Disease Weekly objectives 1. WO3.3- Differentiate between normal and abnormal respiratory structure and function. (CO1) 2. WO3.1-Analyze pathophysiological mechanisms associated with alterations in respiratory processes. (CO1) 3. WO3.2- Describe outcomes of disruptive or alteration in respiratory processes. (CO2) 4. WO3.4- Apply a clinical practice guideline in the management of a patient with altered respiratory function. (CO5). Mechanics of Respiration: Pulmonary Function Tests Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are non-invasive tests that provide information about lung function. PFTs alone cannot differentiate among the causes of respiratory abnormalities. Therefore, the patient’s history, physical exam and other diagnostics must be considered when making a diagnosis. The PFT can help the NP determine the patient’s respiratory pattern, specifically if the abnormality is due to an obstructive or restrictive problem. Once the pattern is identified, PFTs allow the NP to determine the severity of the disease. This data combined with other patient findings, leads to a diagnosis. There are some indications to help the NP to determine when to order PFTs: