An overview of asthma.
Asthma is a disease characterized by reversible airflow obstruction and airway hyperresponsiveness. This disease accounts for thousands of hospitalizations each year. Critical care nurses play an important role in the management of acute asthma and in the prevention of acute exacerbations. This article presents an overview of asthma, its pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, and management.
Sims
Jennifer M
JM
Cardiology of Kentucky, Louisville, KY 40207, USA. JS3944@aol.com
D000208:Acute Disease; D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001249:Asthma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D001985:Bronchial Provocation Tests; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010366:Peak Expiratory Flow Rate; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D012307:Risk Factors; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents