Nursing Case Study Asthma

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare the frequency of asthma among Australian children is one of the highest in the world. A national survey conducted in 2008 found that 20.8% of people aged 0 to 15 years old were diagnosed with asthma, whilst 11.3% were found to show current signs and symptoms of asthma amongst this age group. To gain a greater understanding of this problem this essay will critically evaluate a case study where Steven, a 15 year old Indigenous Australian male, has been presented to hospital with shortness of breath. When conducting a health history check on Steven it was found that he has been diagnosed with having asthma and that he has been smoking for the past two years. In addition to this, Steven
This obstruction of the airways is the result of bronchospasm, mucous plugging, smooth muscle hypertrophy, inflammation and oedema of the airways. Symptoms associated with asthma include coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, and breathlessness which causes the person to increase their respiratory drive. This increased effort to breathe can lead to hypoxia and hypercarbia due to gas trapping in the lungs. This can potentially lead to haemodynamic instability and respiratory arrest if not treated properly. Asthma triggers vary from person-to-person, however the most common causes of asthma are allergens, respiratory tract infections, air pollutants, smoking, cold air, and physical activity. To treat and relieve asthma related symptoms two key concepts must be noted; relieving bronchospasm with bronchodilators and reducing inflammation with steroid administration. It is important to note that early administration of steroids is important due to it taking several hours to take
As explained previously, Erikson states that people who are aged 12 to 18 years are more self-directed and independent in their own lives. Due to this reason, the nurse should talk directly to Steven in an adult manner when advising him on his health care needs. When providing health related information to Steven, the nurse should also ensure that adequate explanation of his health and health care plan is provided. This will allow Steven to be better informed about his health problems. In addition to this, to encourage Steven’s independence the nurse should allow him to be involved in all decisions relating to his health. This will allow Steven to feel more independent when making decisions about his own health, thereby providing greater autonomy and independence. By providing this information in this manner, it is hoped that Steven will be more likely to take control of his own health and