Intensive and Critical Care Nursing
Volume 22, Issue 6 , Pages 329-337, December 2006

The pathophysiology of emphysema: Considerations for critical care nursing practice

Bournemouth University, Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, United Kingdom

Accepted 12 March 2006.

Summary 

Emphysema is caused by exposure to cigarette smoking as well as alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency. It has been estimated to cost the National Health Service (NHS) in excess of £800 million per year in related health care costs. The challenges for Critical Care nurses are those associated with dynamic hyperinflation, Auto-PEEP, malnutrition and the weaning from invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation. In this paper we consider the impact of the pathophysiology of emphysema, its effects on other body systems as well as the impact acute exacerbations have when patients are admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.

Keywords: Emphysema, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Weaning, Ventilation

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PII: S0964-3397(06)00043-7

doi:10.1016/j.iccn.2006.03.003

Intensive and Critical Care Nursing
Volume 22, Issue 6 , Pages 329-337, December 2006

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