(5)
Malaise.
(6)
Red or swollen tonsils on examination.
d. Preventive Measures. None.
5-9.
PNEUMONIA
Pneumonia is an acute infection of the air sacs in the lungs. It usually occurs as
a result from other infections (that is, injury to the respiratory mucosa with pneumonia
as a secondary infection, influenza, common cold, and bronchitis).
NOTE:
Patients who are hospitalized and confined to the bed, post-operative patients
or patients with chest or abdominal trauma injuries, have a tendency not to
take deep breaths and cough due to pain associated with these procedures.
It would be better if the patient would cough or try to cough to loosen some of
the congestion and to expel it from the chest and mouth.
a. Signs and Symptoms.
(1)
Runny nose, sore throat several days before onset.
(2)
Severe chest pain when coughing.
(3)
Productive cough when able to cough--sputum slightly blood-tinged.
(4)
Fever (103F or higher).
(5)
Chills.
(6)
Shortness of breath.
b. Treatment. Includes bedrest and fluids.
c. Referral. Refer patient to higher level of medical care if the patient's
condition deteriorates. If the patient has a severe case of pneumonia, refer to a
physician immediately.
d. Preventive Measures.
(1)
Good personal hygiene.
(2)
Strongly encourage patients to cough and deep breathe when
bedridden.
(3)
MD0550
5-11