Module 05 written assignment – concept map: respiratory process
An evaluation of the patient suffering from a severe respiratory condition would also include a thorough assessment of their psychological and physical health. The chest, abdomen, heart, and lungs should all be examined. Auscultation, which is listening to your breath sounds and assessing the chest for any signs of a respiratory condition such as crackling or wheezing can detect these conditions. For further investigation, additional tests may be performed such as lung function tests, imaging scans (xray, CT scan), blood test, or sputum analysis.
In addition to the physical evaluation of the patient’s condition, psychological assessment is also important to identify any underlying stressors that may have caused or contributed to the development of their illness. The patient’s lifestyle habits and environmental exposures should also be considered when diagnosing a respiratory disorder; things like smoking history, exposure to air pollutants or allergens could play a role in causing respiratory issues and need to be investigated properly.
The overall goal of this assessment process is twofold: firstly it helps determine which specific diagnosis is most likely responsible for the patient’s symptoms, while secondly providing insight into risk factors which can then be addressed in order to reduce exacerbations/complications from the illness in future. Proper management includes both medical treatment – including medications such as bronchodilators or steroids – as well as lifestyle modifications if applicable (quitting smoking etc.).