Although “Pneumonia” was regarded by William Osler in the 19th century as “the captain of the men of death”, the advent of antibiotic therapy and vaccines in the 20th century has seen improvements in survival. Nevertheless, in developing countries, and among all age groups, it remains a leading cause of death. Yet, little attention is paid to this disease. Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung parenchyma caused by various microorganisms. Sudden onset; shaking chill; rapidly rising fever and pleuritic chest pain aggravated by respiration or coughing are its vital clinical manifestations. The key goals of management of Pneumonia are maintaining adequate gas exchange, clearing the infection and promoting the airway clearance through skilled effective nursing interventions. Monitoring the sputum production, respiratory pattern and characteristics, ABGs and SaO2 to determine oxygen needs; Providing chest physical therapy and postural drainage and therapeutic Positioning; Administering Oxygen, Bronchodilators, NSAID’s, Antibiotics and timely suctioning are the goal directed nursing interventions in effective management of Pneumonia. The best way to prevent pneumococcal disease is by getting vaccinated. The pneumococcal vaccines like Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13) and Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23) are helpful to protect against some of the more than 90 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
Keywords: Pneumonia; Pnuemonitis; Pneumococcal infections; Bronchopneumonia; Nursing management; Pneumonia vaccination.
Review Article
P. 21-29
