You will perform a history of a respiratory problem that either your instructor has provided you or one that you have experienced and perform a respiratory assessment. You will document your subjective and objective findings, identify actual or potential risks, and submit this in a Word document to the drop box provided. APA Format

Title: A History and Assessment of Respiratory Problems: A Case Study

Introduction:
Respiratory problems are prevalent health concerns that affect millions of individuals worldwide. The assessment and management of these conditions demand a thorough understanding of the subjective and objective findings and their potential risks. This paper presents a case study of a respiratory problem, documenting the history, conducting a respiratory assessment, and identifying actual or potential risks. The case study aims to analyze the dynamics of respiratory conditions, evaluate the patient’s health status, and provide appropriate recommendations for optimal care.

Subjective Findings:
Mrs. Smith, a 55-year-old female, presents with a history of recurrent cough and shortness of breath for the past six months. She reports experiencing the symptoms more frequently during cold weather or when exposed to environmental irritants such as dust or smoke. Initially, she was able to manage her symptoms with over-the-counter cough medicine. However, over time, the symptoms have worsened, leading her to seek medical attention. Mrs. Smith denies chest pain, wheezing, or any significant weight changes.

Mrs. Smith’s past medical history demonstrates no major respiratory conditions, but she does have a history of seasonal allergies. She highlights that her symptoms tend to coincide with periods of increased pollen in the air. She does not smoke, and her family history does not include any significant respiratory ailments.

Objective Findings:
During the respiratory assessment, Mrs. Smith appears well-groomed and in no acute distress. Her vital signs are within normal ranges, with a blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg, a heart rate of 76 beats per minute, and a respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute. Her oxygen saturation levels are at 98%, indicating adequate oxygenation.

Upon auscultation of the lungs, bilateral wheezing is detected in the lower lung fields. The percussion of the lung fields produces a resonant sound, indicating normal air-filled spaces. However, breath sounds are diminished in the lower lobes, indicating potential airway constriction or obstruction.

Actual or Potential Risks:
Based on the subjective and objective findings, Mrs. Smith demonstrates symptoms consistent with the diagnosis of asthma. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to recurrent episodes of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath (Global Initiative for Asthma [GINA], 2020). The presence of wheezing, coughing triggered by specific environmental factors, and a personal history of allergies align with the clinical presentation of asthma.

Asthma is associated with various risks, both actual and potential. Immediate risks for Mrs. Smith may include respiratory distress during severe asthma attacks, leading to inadequate oxygenation and potential complications. Untreated or poorly controlled asthma can lead to chronic respiratory impairment, reduced quality of life, and limitations in daily activities. Furthermore, asthma exacerbations can pose a significant economic burden due to increased healthcare utilization, medications, and missed workdays (Mannino, Buist, & Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease [GOLD] Executive Committee, 2007). It is essential to address these risks promptly to optimize Mrs. Smith’s respiratory health.

Conclusion:
This case study has documented the history and assessed a respiratory problem in Mrs. Smith. Objective findings, such as wheezing and diminished breath sounds, along with subjective symptoms of recurrent cough and shortness of breath, suggest a diagnosis of asthma. Understanding the actual and potential risks associated with asthma is crucial for providing appropriate interventions, optimizing Mrs. Smith’s health, and reducing the impact of this chronic respiratory condition. Further assessment and management will involve implementing a holistic care plan that includes pharmacological management, environmental modifications, and patient education to effectively control asthma symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.