CASE STUDY ANALYSIS
An understanding of the respiratory system is a critically important component of disease diagnosis and treatment. This importance is magnified by the fact that oftentimes, the respiratory system works closely with the cardiovascular system. A variety of factors and circumstances that impact the emergence and severity of issues in one system can have a role in the performance of the other.
Effective disease analysis often requires an understanding that goes beyond these systems and their capacity to work together. The impact of patient characteristics, as well as racial and ethnic variables, can also have an important impact.
An understanding of the symptoms of alterations in the respiratory system is a critical step in diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. For APRNs, this understanding can also help educate patients and guide them through their treatment plans.
In this Assignment, you examine a case study and analyze the symptoms presented. You identify the elements that may be factors in the diagnosis, and you explain the implications to patient health.
RESOURCES
These readings are intended to serve as supplementary to the Lecturio content provided in this course. Please refer/review these supplementary resources should you need help in reinforcing concepts and in preparation for completing this week’s Assessments.
- McCance, K. L. & Huether, S. E. (2019). Pathophysiology: The biologic basis for disease in adults and children (8th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby/Elsevier.
- Chapter 32: Structure and Function of the Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems; Summary Review
- Chapter 33: Alterations of Cardiovascular Function (stop at Dysrhythmias); Summary Review
- Chapter 35: Structure and Function of the Pulmonary System; Summary Review
- Chapter 36: Alterations of Pulmonary Function (stop at Disorders of the chest wall and pleura); (obstructive pulmonary diseases) (stop at Pulmonary artery hypertension); Summary Review
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
The Assignment
In your Case Study Analysis related to the scenario provided, explain the following
- The pulmonary pathophysiologic processes that result in the patient presenting these symptoms.
- Any racial/ethnic variables that may impact physiological functioning.
- How these processes interact to affect the patient.
NURS_6501_Week 4_Case Study_Assignment_Rubric
| NURS_6501_Week 4_Case Study_Assignment_Rubric | ||||||
| Criteria | Ratings | Pts | ||||
| This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeDevelop a 1- to 2-page case study analysis, examining the patient symptoms presented in the case study. Be sure to address the following: Explain pulmonary pathophysiologic processes of why the patient presents these symptoms. |
| 30 pts | ||||
| This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeExplain how the pulmonary pathophysiologic processes interact to affect the patient. |
| 30 pts | ||||
| This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeExplain any racial/ethnic variables that may impact physiological functioning. |
| 25 pts | ||||
| This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWritten Expression and Formatting – Paragraph Development and Organization: Paragraphs make clear points that support well-developed ideas, flow logically, and demonstrate continuity of ideas. Sentences are carefully focused—neither long and rambling nor short and lacking substance. A clear and comprehensive purpose statement and introduction are provided that delineate all required criteria. |
| 5 pts | ||||
| This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWritten Expression and Formatting – English Writing Standards: Correct grammar, mechanics, and proper punctuation |
| 5 pts | ||||
| This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWritten Expression and Formatting – The paper follows correct APA format for title page, headings, font, spacing, margins, indentations, page numbers, running heads, parenthetical/in-text citations, and reference list. |
| 5 pts | ||||
| Total Points: 100 | ||||||
Case Study Analysis
Patient Symptoms: The patient presents with symptoms indicative of respiratory distress, including shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. These symptoms suggest an underlying respiratory issue affecting the pulmonary system’s functionality.
Pulmonary Pathophysiologic Processes: The patient’s symptoms align with obstructive pulmonary diseases, particularly asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In asthma, the airways become inflamed, leading to bronchoconstriction and excess mucus production, resulting in wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. In COPD, the airways become narrowed and damaged, making it difficult to exhale air fully, leading to similar symptoms.
Interactions of Pulmonary Pathophysiologic Processes: In both asthma and COPD, the inflammatory response in the airways leads to airflow limitation and respiratory symptoms. The chronic inflammation and bronchoconstriction in these conditions interact to exacerbate symptoms, leading to further respiratory distress and compromised lung function over time.
Racial/Ethnic Variables Impacting Physiological Functioning: Racial and ethnic variables can impact the prevalence, severity, and treatment response of respiratory diseases. For instance, studies have shown that African Americans are more likely to develop and die from asthma compared to other racial/ethnic groups. Additionally, disparities in access to healthcare and environmental factors such as air pollution may contribute to these differences.
In conclusion, the patient’s symptoms suggest an obstructive pulmonary disease such as asthma or COPD, characterized by inflammation and airflow limitation in the airways. Understanding the pathophysiological processes and considering racial/ethnic variables are crucial for accurate diagnosis and management, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.