What Are Common Respiratory Conditions to Watch For?
Nurses should be vigilant for several common respiratory conditions, including:
Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make breathing difficult. Asthma: A condition in which the airways narrow and swell, producing extra mucus. Pulmonary edema: A condition caused by excess fluid in the lungs. Pulmonary embolism: A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, typically caused by blood clots.
