Pneumonia is an inflammatory response of the alveoli to the uncontrolled multiplication of microorganisms invading the lower respiratory tract. Common causative agents Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Pneumocystis (PCP), Carinii Pneumonia, Streptococcus Gram Positive(Community-acquired pneumonia), and Staphylococcus Gram Negative (Hospital-acquired pneumonia) which may viruses, protozoans, and bacteria. Noxious substances can also cause pneumonia. The causative agent is usually introduced to the lungs by direct droplet through inhalation.

Cardinal Signs and Symptoms of Pneumonia

  • Fever
  • Shaking chills
  • Productive cough
  • Sputum production
    • Rusty colored – Streptococcus pneumoniae
    • Creamy Yellow – Staphylococcus pneumoniae
    • Currant Jelly – Klebsiella
    • Greenish – Pseudomonas
    • Clear – No infection
  • Pleuritic chest pain due to the friction between the pleural layer.

Infants and Children with Pneumonia have:

2 weeks – 2 month old: 60 breaths per minute.
2 months – 12 months old: 50 breaths per minute.
12 months – 5 years: 40 breaths per minute.

With the findings above plus chest in drawing or stridor is observed, the client has Severe Pneumonia.

Diagnostic Exam for Pneumonia

  • Chest X-Ray. Most confirmatory diagnostic exam for pneumonia. Lung consolidation or patchy infiltrates are observed.
  • Sputum exam. This is taken in the morning, upon rising, because of copious amounts of sputum in the morning. Teach the client deep breathing and coughing.
  • Bronchoalveolar lavage.

Management for Pneumonia

Antibiotic therapy like Co-trimoxazole is administered, Oxygen administration as needed, and Pulmonary toilet (suctioning, chest physiotherapy, blow bottles, and nasotracheal suctioning).

Nursing Care Management for Pneumonia

  • Splint the chest or apply chest binder
  • Turn the patient towards affected side
  • Maintain patent airway
  • Provide adequate rest
  • Provide comfort measures. Keep patient warm and dry

Prevention of Pneumonia

  • Pneumococcal and influenza vaccines
  • Proper disposal of nasopharyngeal secretions
  • Covering of the nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing
  • Never kiss the patient