Respiratory Infections And The Aged Adult - 1737 Words

Respiratory Infection Related to the Aged Adult Despite the multiple layers of protection the human body has against infection, bacteria and viruses still have the potential to breach the hosts defense system causing a cascade of issues. In addition, the aged adult can experience some changes to the immune system, creating more risk factors for infection. In this paper I will be discussing respiratory infections related to the aged population. Specifically, a literature review will be conducted to explore normal values, assessment strategies, diagnostics, altered findings. Additionally, this information will be applied to nursing practice to discuss its implications and challenges. Normal Results of an Aged Adult The immune system is the bodies surveillance system to keep it safe from intruders. The important cells and organs inside the body are initially kept safe by mechanical barriers such as skin and cough reflexes. If the intruder gets past the physical barrier, there are security guards patrolling the body including good bacteria, buffers and pH changes and secretion of enzymes (Price, 2015, p.13). Unfortunately, this security system is not completely protected. There is potential for bacteria and viruses to get past each layer of defense causing an infection. When we are looking at the aged population and respiratory infection, there are many changes the pulmonary system experiences throughout time. Sharman Goodwin (2006) discuss the common changes includingShow MoreRelatedAbstract. The Common Cold And Influenza Are Two Common1156 Words   |  5 PagesAbstract The common cold and Influenza are two common illnesses of the upper respiratory tract. These illness can often be mistaken for each other due to the overlapping symptoms. The two symptoms that seem to present when the flu is occurring are a fever with a cough. 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