Problem:
Laura age 9 years is brought to the ER by her mother. Laura is in acute respiratory distress. Her mother informs the nurse that Laura has had multiple hospital admissions related to asthma. Laura does not respond to the usual rescue treatments while in the ER. She is admitted to the pediatric unit with a diagnosis of Acute Exacerbation of Asthma. List the clinical manifestations of Asthma that Laura might exhibit. The nurse starts an IV to provide fluids and medications for Laura. Aminophylline is added to the IV. What are the common side effects Laura might experience with the use of this medication? What nursing measures are implemented with the use of this medication? The nurse review asthma triggers with Laura's mother. What are factors that might precipitate an asthma attack? Laura has been using a Peak Flow Meter to help monitor her breathing capacity. She also uses a metered-dose inhaler. What information does the parent need to receive regarding the use of these treatment modalities? The nurse's first-priority nursing diagnosis is impaired gas exchange related to narrowing of the bronchial lumen by spasm, edema, and secretions. What goal will the nurse establish and what nursing interventions will the nurse utilize to meet this goal? List four other nursing diagnoses which would be appropriate for Laura while hospitalized. Make a list of items to be included in a teaching plan to provide for self-management of asthma.