Nursing 213

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide

Signs and symptoms of legionnaires’ disease: • Fatigue • Muscle aches (myalgia) • Dry, hacking cough • Headaches • Dyspnea • Diarrhea Nursing assessment for legionnaires’ disease: • Head to toe general assessment o

Fever Chest pain Hypotension

• • • •

Respiratory distress and possible failure

Check breath sounds and respiratory status o Check oxygen saturations o Inquire about recent exposure to mist, such as saunas, hot tubs, swamp coolers, etc. o Ask about duration and severity of symptoms • Review laboratory and radiology reports o CBC with differential o Chemistry panel o Blood and sputum cultures for L. pneumophila o Antibody testing for L. pneumophila o Chest x-ray o Arterial blood gases Nursing diagnosis for legionnaires’ disease: • Impaired gas exchange related to decreased ventilation ability • Ineffective airway clearance related to increased secretions • Activity intolerance related to symptoms of infection • Knowledge deficit related to disease transmission Nursing interventions for legionnaires’ disease: • Monitor breath sounds and cough; give supplemental oxygen per MDorder • Check pulse oximetry frequently • Monitor for signs of decreased respiratory status including hypoxia, decreased O2 saturations, nasal flaring, and retractions • Give cough drops and expectorants per MD order • Encourage increased fluids

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