Question

Pathophysiology concepts as related to nursing assessment: Airway, Breathing & Circulation. Please read the mini case study below which includes clinical observations and assessment findings in an asthma patient named Dom. Please explain what is going on in the case study scenario, explaining pathophysiology.

Answer 1

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed, constricted, and produce excess mucus, leading to airflow obstruction.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the given case study, Dom, an asthma patient, is experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, headache, chest pain, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms indicate an asthma exacerbation or attack. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed, constricted, and produce excess mucus, leading to airflow obstruction.

The pathophysiology of asthma involves the hyperactive response of the immune system, triggering inflammation in the airways. This inflammatory response activates various cells and substances, such as mast cells, eosinophils, and histamine, which cause bronchoconstriction and increased mucus production. As a result, there is decreased airflow through the narrowed airways, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and coughing.