Final answer:
Impaired gas exchange is a primary nursing diagnosis for pneumonia due to fluid-filled alveoli impeding normal gas transmission, often treated with antibiotics and supplemental oxygen.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nigel develops nursing diagnoses for Mr. Hannigan's care plan. Impaired gas exchange is a primary nursing diagnosis for pneumonia. When a person has pneumonia, the alveoli in the lungs, which are essential for the transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the blood, become inflamed and filled with fluid. This accumulation of fluid restricts the efficient exchange of gases, as the alveoli are normally air-filled spaces that facilitate this process. Impaired gas exchange can lead to hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood) and an increase in carbon dioxide levels, manifesting as difficulty breathing, a core symptom of pneumonia.
It is important to recognize that impaired gas exchange is a serious health issue and must be addressed promptly. Treatments for pneumonia often include antibiotics for bacterial causes, as well as supportive measures such as supplemental oxygen to enhance gas exchange while the infection resolves. The primary goal is to clear the fluid from the alveoli to restore normal respiratory function and improve the patient's ability to breathe.