Resp Care
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Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that typically produces malnutrition and chronic respiratory infections. Prolonged bronchial obstruction, infection, and inflammation result in bronchiectstasis and permanent lung damage. Most cystic fibrosis patients die because of this progressive respiratory disease. ⋯ Aerosol therapy, airway clearance techniques, and noninvasive ventilation can all improve quality of life and possibly extend survival. Close patient monitoring with pulmonary function testing, chest radiography, and induced sputum can result in earlier treatment, potentially reducing permanent lung damage. Earlier diagnosis has prevented serious complications through early initiation of preventive therapies such as improved nutrition.
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Though asthma cannot be cured, it can be effectively controlled with existing treatments. Management strategies for acute and chronic asthma often vary substantially within and among medical facilities and practices, often driven by physician preference and familiarity rather than by data. The use of carefully designed care paths can improve quality of care and decrease management costs of acute asthma in both the emergency department and in-patient setting. ⋯ Assessment-driven care paths can be safely and effectively administered by respiratory therapists and nurses. The major controversies in the management of chronic asthma center on what to do for the patient who fails to respond to low or moderate doses of inhaled corticosteroids. The addition of a long-acting beta agonist or a leukotriene receptor antagonist may be beneficial.