Aspiration pneumonia is infection of the lungs that occurs as a result of contamination by stomach contents. This usually occurs when the muscles in the gastrointestinal system become weak or paralyzed. Elderly persons, those in intensive care units and those in preparation for surgery have a significantly high risk. It is important that strict measures for aspiration pneumonia prevention are put in place and observed to the letter.
Among the key ways to prevent the condition is to insert a nasogastric tube for patients who experience difficulties swallowing food because of paralysis of their muscles. It is important to put such patients under sedation so that the procedure can be done smoothly without agitating them. This conduit runs from the nostril to the pit of the stomach.
The tube needs to be changed from time to time as it can be a nidus for infection. It is also bound to clog if it is not cleaned or frequently changed. Only liquids and semi-solid foods can be administered through it. This is because the conduit is not large enough to allow smooth passage of solid particles.
Sometimes, the nasogastric tube may fail to be inserted correctly. This could be because the care giver lacks skills in correct placement. It could also be because the patient is not willing to have the tube inserted. Regardless of the reason, the healthcare team should find a good alternative to prevent the patient from starving. An intravenous infusion can be set up through which parenteral feeds can be administered.
Stroke is among the medical disorders in which insertion of a nasogastric tube may be indicated. This is because stroke patients are at risk of aspirating since their muscles become paralyzed suddenly. Some of the conditions that predispose one to getting a stroke include diabetes, hypertension and cardiac disease. Any patient diagnosed with stroke should be examined to ascertain whether or not they can comfortably take in oral feeds.
There are a number of simple measures to observe when taking care of patients susceptible to aspiration so as to minimize the risk. One of them is to ensure that they sleep comfortably over a pillow such that they assume a propped up position. If there are no pillows available, the head of the bed can be elevated. In addition, the caregiver should ensure the patient lies on the side.
Intensive care units need to be diligent in giving care to patients to ensure they do not complicate. Intubation should be done when indicated as it also helps in preventing this complication. Routine screening of the lungs should be carried out to rule out any infections.
In summary, aspiration pneumonia comes about when digested food goes into the respiratory tract instead of down the esophagus to the stomach. The elderly and those with disorders of nerves and muscles are the most likely to aspirate. Prevention involves assisted feeding and propping up.
Among the key ways to prevent the condition is to insert a nasogastric tube for patients who experience difficulties swallowing food because of paralysis of their muscles. It is important to put such patients under sedation so that the procedure can be done smoothly without agitating them. This conduit runs from the nostril to the pit of the stomach.
The tube needs to be changed from time to time as it can be a nidus for infection. It is also bound to clog if it is not cleaned or frequently changed. Only liquids and semi-solid foods can be administered through it. This is because the conduit is not large enough to allow smooth passage of solid particles.
Sometimes, the nasogastric tube may fail to be inserted correctly. This could be because the care giver lacks skills in correct placement. It could also be because the patient is not willing to have the tube inserted. Regardless of the reason, the healthcare team should find a good alternative to prevent the patient from starving. An intravenous infusion can be set up through which parenteral feeds can be administered.
Stroke is among the medical disorders in which insertion of a nasogastric tube may be indicated. This is because stroke patients are at risk of aspirating since their muscles become paralyzed suddenly. Some of the conditions that predispose one to getting a stroke include diabetes, hypertension and cardiac disease. Any patient diagnosed with stroke should be examined to ascertain whether or not they can comfortably take in oral feeds.
There are a number of simple measures to observe when taking care of patients susceptible to aspiration so as to minimize the risk. One of them is to ensure that they sleep comfortably over a pillow such that they assume a propped up position. If there are no pillows available, the head of the bed can be elevated. In addition, the caregiver should ensure the patient lies on the side.
Intensive care units need to be diligent in giving care to patients to ensure they do not complicate. Intubation should be done when indicated as it also helps in preventing this complication. Routine screening of the lungs should be carried out to rule out any infections.
In summary, aspiration pneumonia comes about when digested food goes into the respiratory tract instead of down the esophagus to the stomach. The elderly and those with disorders of nerves and muscles are the most likely to aspirate. Prevention involves assisted feeding and propping up.
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