Evidence-based assessment of the lungs and respiratory system

This chapter helps the reader to describe the structure and function of the respiratory system; to determine key assessments for evaluating the lungs and respiratory system; and to identify assessment findings, signs and symptoms, abnormalities, disorders, and/or diseases of the respiratory system. It discusses the anatomy and physiology of the lungs and respiratory system in detail. Individuals with respiratory problems or illnesses commonly present with symptoms of shortness of breath or dyspnea, cough, chest pain, and/or hemoptysis, the expectoration of blood or blood-tinged sputum from the respiratory tract. The most prominent or bothersome of the symptoms often becomes the reason for seeking care and should be reviewed carefully as the presenting symptom. The initial assessment of an individual through a general survey provides valuable information about the patient’s physiologic stability. Finally, the chapter presents laboratory considerations, imaging considerations, and evidence-based considerations for evaluation of the lungs and respiratory system.