Cardiorespiratory

[toddchaney]

Atelectasis may be the result of a blocked airway or of pressure from outside the lung. It is observed in almost everyone who undergoes surgery, it is caused because of the use of anesthesia. To improve the patient's condition, following techniques must be employed:

• Make him Inhale bronchodilators as it opens the bronchial tubes of the lungs, making breathing easier.
  
• Use medication to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up.

[cptutoringservices]

I have to respectfully disagree with this advice. Atelectasis post-operatively is due to a reduced functional residual capacity to below the closing capacity level of the lungs. This results in early airways closure, and resultant atelectasis. Also, the anaesthesia will contribute by causing respiratory muscle dysfunction with inhibition of the phrenic nerve. Also, lack of sighs whilst ventilated with reduce surfactant production, and therefore reduce compliance of the lungs, also contributing to the atelectatic state post-operatively. Areas of atelectasis provide an ideal area for the growth of bacteria, due to the reduced airflow in combination with the dark, warm, and moist environment. This is why pneumonia can result from post-op atelectasis. The most effective treatment is to improve lung volumes by positioning and mobility. FRC is significantly higher in the upright position, and lung volumes are further increased with the increased ventilation demands resultant from mobility. This will in turn increase expiratory airflow, which will facilitate secretion clearance from the lungs. There is significant literature to support the use of mobility to prevent post-operative pulmonary complications, which can be found in any of the health databases (CINAHL, AMED, or even Google Scholar). Try a search of prevention of post-operative pulmonary complications AND abdominal surgery - it is sure to get plenty of hits....