Many people will be diagnosed with pneumonia every year and while some may not require hospitalization, some will be hospitalized. Knowing when to call your primary care physician is crucial in combating the illness. Consider attending a PALS class to learn about techniques that are used to provide emergency treatment to children. The certification is valid for 2 years and some hospitals may offer incentives for nurses that attend and pass the class.
There are several types of Pneumonia depending upon which microorganism has been contracted by inhalation. Bacteria, viruses, fungi or protozoa microorganisms spread through the infected person by the mouth, eyes or nose. If the immune system is weakened the microorganisms will spread to the lungs and the alveoli. The alveoli are tiny little air sacs that can become filled with fluid and pus from the infecting microorganism, which makes it extremely hard for the body to get the oxygen that it desperately needs. Licensed health care providers that work in ER, ICU, PACU, OR, or OB just to mention a few areas, are usually required to attend a PALS class and become certified in providing advanced emergency care to the pediatric patients.
Just be aware that Pneumonia can cause some serious complications if not treated in a timely manner. Some potential complications include pleural effusion which is fluid around the lung, empyema which is pus in the pleural cavity, hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood) and although it is rare, and abscess can occur. At anytime you become short of breath and unable to breathe, immediately call for help (911). The paramedics that respond to your call are well qualified in emergency situations when a person can not breath or their heart has stopped. The PALS class is a Pediatric Advanced Life Support and is approved by the American Heart Association.
The treatment of Pneumonia depends on the type of pneumonia it is and how far advanced it has become. Also, if there are other co-morbidities, such as bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, diabetes just to mention a few that are common can make treatment of pneumonia more difficult and the outcome may be undesirable. An ACLS certification class provides detailed instructions for the health care provider to enable them to give care to children that are in need of emergency treatment. Pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics and at times hospitalization may be required.
Study Smart | Stemi Protocol | Medical Training | Medical Terminology Cardiology | Cardiac Arrest | Asystole | Amiodarne | Chest Pain
