DEFINITION:
Lung abscess is defined as necrosis of the pulmonary tissues and formation of cavities containing necrotic
debris or fluid causes by microbial infection.
Or
It is the collection of pus within the lungs.
CAUSES:
§Pre existing lung diseases – Bronchiectasis,
Bronchial obstruction – tumor, foreign body.
§Trauma.
§Immunodeficiency.
§Aspiration of gastric content.
§Alcohol or drug used.
§Bacterial infection.
RISK FACTORS:
§Alcoholism.
§Drug overdose.
§CVA.
§Pneumonia.
§Person who inspire cough reflexes.
§Nasogastric tube feeding.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:
Abscess formation.
Tissues necrosis liquefaction.
Inflammatory, vascular obstruction
Pneumonitis impair drainage of fluid or aspirated material.
Aspiration of infected material or foreign body.
MANAGEMENT:
§Antibiotics (6 to 8 weeks) - penicillin.
§Chest physiotherapy and postural drainage.
§Frequent mouth care to relief foul smelling odor and taste from the sputum.
§Diluted hydrogen peroxide and mouth washes.
§Rest, good nutrition, adequate fluid intake.
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT:
§Lobectomy or Segmentectomy
§Thoracotomy - Large incision is made in the chest wall to access the lung.
§Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
§Decortication
NURSING MANAGEMENT:
üMonitor vital signs.
üAssess oxygen saturation levels and administer supplemental oxygen as needed
üPerform a thorough respiratory assessment, including monitoring respiratory rate, depth, and effort.
üAdminister antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider to target the specific pathogen causing the abscess.
üProvide analgesics for pain management, as lung abscesses can be painful.
üAdminister antipyretics if the patient has a fever.
üEncourage deep breathing exercises and effective coughing to help clear secretions and prevent respiratory complications.
üProvide chest physiotherapy as ordered to promote airway clearance.
üEnsure adequate hydration to help loosen and mobilize respiratory secretions.
üProvide nutritional support as needed, especially if the patient has a decreased appetite or difficulty eating.
üEncourage the patient to change positions regularly to prevent complications such as pneumonia.
üImplement strict hand hygiene measures to prevent the spread of infection.
üProvide emotional support and encouragement to the patient, as a lung abscess can be a stressful experience.
üCollaborate with the healthcare team to develop a comprehensive discharge plan.