1. The client/caregiver can define pneumonia.
    1. It is an inflammation of the lung usually caused by infection with
      • Bacteria
      • Viruses
      • Mycoplasma
      • Chlamydia
      • Fungi
      • Pneumocystis carinii
    2. The disease progresses from filling of the airways and air sacs to hardening of the lung tissue as exudate collects.
  2. The client/caregiver can list factors that increase risk.
    1. Smoking and air pollution
    2. Upper-respiratory infection
    3. Prolonged immobility
    4. Malnutrition
    5. Chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease, cancer, renal disease, etc.)
    6. Exposure to intense cold, damp weather
    7. Inhalation of noxious substances
    8. Immunosuppressive drugs
    9. Age (very young or very old)
    10. Alcohol abuse
  3. The client/caregiver can list where and how they can be exposed to organisms that cause pneumonia.
    1. Community acquired
    2. Hospital acquired
    3. Aspiration pneumonia (foreign matter inhaled into lung)
    4. Opportunistic organisms (when immune system is impaired)
  4. The client/caregiver can recognize signs and symptoms.
    1. Chest pain
    2. Fever and chills
    3. Cough (may be productive)
    4. Green, yellow, or rust-colored sputum
    5. Muscle pain and weakness
    6. Loss of appetite
    7. Rapid pulse and respirations
    8. Shortness of breath
  5. The client/caregiver can list measures to prevent or manage pneumonia.
    1. Receive flu and pneumonia vaccinations.
    2. Drink 2 to 3 quarts of fluid daily to thin secretions, and replace fluid loss unless contraindicated.
    3. Avoid the spread of infection.
      1. Wash hands, and use hand sanitizers if not possible to wash.
      2. Cover mouth with tissue when coughing.
      3. Dispose of used tissues properly.
    4. Avoid smoking because it destroys ciliary action and increases secretions.
    5. Avoid excessive alcohol, which lowers resistance to infection.
    6. Allow for plenty of rest during illness.
    7. Encourage deep breathing and coughing every 2 hours.
    8. Prevent aspiration for clients at risk.
    9. Cleanse respiratory equipment on regular basis.
    10. Encourage frequent oral hygiene.
    11. Change position frequently if client is immobilized.
    12. Take all medications prescribed. Avoid sedatives and other medications that cause respiratory depression.
    13. Keep follow-up appointments with the physician.
  6. The client/caregiver is aware of possible complications.
    1. Pleural effusion
    2. Collapsed lung
    3. Lung abscess
    4. Septic shock
    5. Congestive heart failure

Resources

Smoking cessation support groups

References

Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. Philadelphia: Mosby Inc.

Cohen, B. J., & Taylor, J. J. (2005). Memmler’s the human body in health and disease (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Nursing 2006 drug handbook. (2006). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Perry, A., & Potter, P. (2006). Clinical nursing skills & technique. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.

Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott

Credits

Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.

© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.

www.jbpub.com

Get Professional Care from the Hands of Clinicians

With the expertise and experience our professionals have, trust that we can address each of your concerns in the best way possible.

Set an Appointment