Question

Write a measurable goal or outcome for a patient with pneumonia

Answer 1

Pneumonia is an infection of the pulmonary tissue, including the interstitial spaces, alveoli, and the bronchioles.

It is further characterized by edema associated with inflammation stiffens the lung, decreases lung compliance and vital capacity, supported by hypoxemia

Major Diagnostic features:

·         The chest x-ray film shows diffuse patches throughout the lungs

·         A sputum culture identifies the organism.

·         High level of white blood cells and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

The major measurable goals for patients with pneumonia for his/her care include:

·         Supportive measures like humidified oxygen therapy for hypoxemia

·         Mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure

·         The high calorie diet & adequate fluid intake. Interventions should include bed rest and analgesic to relieve pleuritic chest pain.

·         Effective Airway Clearance

·         Risk for Imbalanced Nutrition: Less Than Body Requirements

·         Acute Pain management

·         Counter the risk for infection

·         To maintain effective Breathing Pattern

·         To control Hyperthermia        

Furthermore the medical management includes:

• Antibiotics therapy considering resistance patterns, risk factors, etiology concerns. In some cases Combination therapy is also used.

• Apart from that supportive treatments are also employed, including hydration, antipyretics, antihistamines, or nasal decongestants.

• Oxygen therapy is given for hypoxemia.

• For groups of high risk for community-acquired pneumonia, pneumococcal vaccination is advised.

Finally I would like to advise that these goals can be achieved by taking the consideration of proper plan.