NURSING MANAGEMENT OF INEFFECTIVE AIRWAY CLEARANCE IN A PATIENT WITH BRONCHOPNEUMONIA: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Bronchopneumonia is an infection of the bronchi, bronchioles, and lung parenchyma that can lead to excessive mucus production and ineffective airway clearance. This condition is commonly characterized by productive cough, dyspnea, adventitious breath sounds, and increased respiratory rate, which may impair ventilation and gas exchange. A patient diagnosed with bronchopneumonia was admitted to the inpatient ward with complaints of productive cough, shortness of breath, fever, and decreased appetite. The patient appeared weak and had difficulty expectorating sputum effectively.Physical examination revealed tachypnea, use of accessory respiratory muscles, productive cough with thick sputum, and rhonchi on auscultation. Based on the subjective and objective findings, the primary nursing diagnosis was Ineffective Airway Clearance related to excessive airway secretions as evidenced by sputum retention, productive cough, and abnormal breath sounds. Nursing interventions included respiratory status monitoring, assessment of respiratory pattern and breath sounds, positioning the patient in a semi-Fowler position, teaching and assisting effective coughing techniques, performing chest physiotherapy, encouraging adequate fluid intake as tolerated, and collaborating with the medical team regarding oxygen therapy and prescribed medications. Interventions were implemented continuously and evaluated throughout the hospitalization period. Following the nursing interventions, the patient demonstrated improved sputum expectoration, reduced shortness of breath, decreased respiratory rate toward the normal range, and diminished rhonchi on lung auscultation. The patient's overall respiratory status improved, indicating better airway patency and secretion clearance. Nursing management focused on maintaining airway patency through respiratory monitoring, effective coughing techniques, chest physiotherapy, and collaborative medical treatment was effective in improving ineffective airway clearance in a patient with bronchopneumonia. Appropriate and timely nursing interventions play a significant role in optimizing respiratory function and promoting recovery. Bronchopneumonia, ineffective airway clearance, nursing management, case report.