Asthma

By the end of this lesson the learner can: - Explain how airway inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), smooth-muscle bronchoconstriction, mucus and airway-wall remodelling combine to produce variable airflow limitation. - Distinguish the early (immediate) and late (inflammatory) components of an allergen-triggered attack and link each to a treatment class. - Interpret spirometry, peak expiratory flow (PEF), bronchial challenge, exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and arterial blood gas results in asthma, including why a normal or rising PaCO2 in a breathless patient is an emergency. - Recognize severe and life-threatening exacerbation (silent chest, inability to speak, drowsiness or confusion, cyanosis, SpO2 below 92%) and state the first RN action, who is notified and how fast. - Describe the actions, monitoring and RN responsibilities for reliever, controller, systemic corticosteroid, ipratropium, oxygen and magnesium therapy. - Identify differences for children and for pregnancy, and teach a written asthma action plan and inhaler technique.