Respiratory Medicine — Flashcards

Flashcard 61: What Wells Score would you arrange an immediate CTPA?

Answer: Wells Score >4 points

Flashcard 62: What acid base disturbance will a panic attack cause?

Answer: • Respiratory alkalosis

Flashcard 63: How does Fat Embolism Syndrome occur?

Answer: • When fat globules are relased from bone, during long bone fractures • These fat globules can travel to the lungs and obstruct pulmonary vessesl

Flashcard 64: What is added to SABA in the initial management of acute severe or life-threatening asthma?

Answer: Treatment includes: • High-dose SABA • Ipratropium bromide • Systemic corticosteroids (IV/Oral) • Magnesium sulfate (IV) • Oxygen to maintain SpO2 93-95% (adults)

Extra: In acute severe or life-threatening asthma (Status Asthmaticus), adding Ipratropium bromide to SABA (Short-Acting Beta-Agonists) such as Salbutamol has been shown to reduce hospitalization rates. Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate is also indicated in severe cases not responding to initial inhaled therapy.

Flashcard 65: What spirometry and gas exchange findings are characteristic of pulmonary fibrosis?

Answer: Restrictive spirometry (FEV1:FVC >70%, reduced FVC) and impaired gas exchange (reduced TLCO)

Flashcard 66: Which COPD patients may benefit from azithromycin prophylaxis?

Answer: Those meeting specific criteria with recurrent exacerbations

Flashcard 67: What is the immediate management of a suspected tension pneumothorax?

Answer: Needle decompression – do not wait for investigations

Flashcard 68: What is the first-line antibiotic for low-severity community-acquired pneumonia?

Answer: Amoxicillin

Flashcard 69: How is atelectasis managed?

Answer: Chest physiotherapy, mobilisation, and breathing exercises

Flashcard 70: After inhaling a dose of medication, how long should the patient hold his breath?

Answer: • 10 seconds