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Severe exacerbations of asthma.
Susan J Corbridge1, Thomas C Corbridge
1College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago and University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center, Chicago 60612, USA. sjsmith@uic.edu
Critical Care Nursing Quarterly
|August 5, 2004
Summary
Asthma exacerbations pose risks even with treatment, but prevention through education and optimal home medication offers the greatest potential for reducing severe outcomes and hospitalizations.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Asthma exacerbations are a significant risk for all patients, especially those with suboptimal outpatient management.
- While most recover with treatment, preventable deaths and hospitalizations due to refractory cases still occur.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of acute asthma exacerbations.
- To establish a foundation for clinical assessment and evidence-based therapeutic strategies.
- To examine mechanical ventilation challenges and propose complication-minimizing strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of pathophysiology of acute asthma exacerbations.
- Analysis of clinical assessment and therapeutic approaches.
- In-depth examination of mechanical ventilation in severe asthma.
Main Results:
- Understanding pathophysiology aids in assessment and treatment rationale.
- Mechanical ventilation presents specific challenges requiring strategic management.
- Prevention through education and optimal home medication is key.
Conclusions:
- Optimal treatment and prevention are crucial for managing asthma exacerbations.
- Enhanced patient education and home medication delivery are vital for long-term gains.
- Reducing preventable deaths and hospitalizations requires a multifaceted approach.