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Controlling Pulmonary Infections



   

By:

.

Curt Hiller, BS, RRT, REG. — Respiratory Therapist, Littleton Regional Hospital
  





Respiratory Therapy Briefs






Controlling Pulmonary Infections






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Possible Symptoms
   
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  • Increased coughing with change in sputum production
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  • Increased shortness of breath
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  • Increased wheezing
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  • Color change or consistency of sputum
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  • Elevated temperature or development of chills
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  • Sore throat
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  • Decreased appetite and endurance
       
    Treatment




  • Notify your family and physician as soon as possible
  • Follow advice from your physician
  • Take medication as prescribed
  • Increase fluid intake of water per physician
  • Rest
  • Follow a balanced diet
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    Prevention





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  • Take all your medication as prescribed


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  • Avoid contact with those who are ill


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  • Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids


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  • Avoid poor ventilated and congested areas


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  • Avoid breathing irritating fumes, smoke, paint, aerosols, and paint.


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  • Maintain yearly vaccinations as recommended by your physician. Consider flu and pneumonia vaccinations


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  • Condition your whole body with supervised exercise program


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  • Maintain a balanced diet


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  • Take plenty of rest breaks


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  • Contact your available healthcare worker for assistance


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  • Keep an open dialogue with your physician to prevent unnecessary hospital visits to the emergency room


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  • Plan ahead when traveling and keep your medication list with you, along with emergency phone numbers and contacts


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  • Do not smoke

     

    Littleton Regional Hospital
    600 St. Johnsbury Road
    Littleton, NH 03561
    Phone: 603-444-9000 or 800-464-7731
    Fax: 603-444-0443