Assigment 1
Assigment 1
Function
Lioudmila A. Maslova
December 8, 2024
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Function
Respiratory issues are significant health concerns that can lead to severe complications
without appropriate and timely intervention. The following paper addresses the complex medical
case of a 56-year-old transgender Hispanic man who presents with declining lung function. This
comprehensive analysis will consider additional subjective and objective data, national
guidelines, diagnostic tests, consultations, diagnoses, legal and ethical considerations, a holistic
care plan, Healthy People 2030 objectives, the Circle of Caring, patient education, and billing
needs and the integration of evidence-based guidelines in the care management process, instilling
Assessment
In this case, the patient's subjective data is of utmost importance. His personal
experiences, such as worsening dyspnea that has progressively affected his daily life and the
specific activities that have become challenging, will provide crucial insights. It is vital to inquire
about the frequency, duration, and severity of his dyspnea, as well as any associated symptoms
Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns or quality, primarily related to his ability
Smoking History Details: The patient should describe his smoking habits, including
Other Symptoms: Inquiry about weight loss, appetite changes, fatigue levels, and the
presence of anxiety or depression specifically related to his health condition, which can affect
Health Literacy and Support Systems: The patient's understanding of his condition and
treatment options and the availability of social support from family or community are crucial
factors in his care. These elements will help us understand the patient's support system and its
Furthermore, it is vital to discuss the impact of the patient's transgender identity on his
healthcare experiences and possible barriers to accessing care. This discussion should be
approached with the utmost sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring the patient feels respected and
understood. Information about these subjective elements will guide the clinical assessment and
management plan.
empowering us to make informed decisions in patient care. Beyond the initial physical
examination, additional objective assessments include vital sign monitoring for changes in blood
pressure, heart rate, and rhythm. A detailed respiratory exam focusing on lung sounds, use of
accessory muscles, and assessment of chest wall movement should be performed. This additional
objective data will help determine the severity of lung function impairment and guide therapeutic
interventions:
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Pulse Oximetry: Monitoring oxygen saturation levels to assess respiratory function and
Peak Flow Measurement: This evaluates the patient’s maximum airflow and tracks any
A nutritional assessment: To evaluate the patient’s energy intake and nutritional status,
which may be affected by his reported low energy and possible weight loss.
By systematically gathering this objective data, healthcare providers can effectively tailor
interventions that address the identified respiratory issues (Roos et al., 2023).
Several national guidelines are pertinent in managing this patient’s condition. The Global
Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) and the American Thoracic Society
(ATS) are both organizations that offer comprehensive and thorough recommendations for
diagnosing and managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and related conditions.
The GOLD guidelines are widely recognized for their thoroughness and relevance to
COPD management. The 2023 GOLD report introduces updated definitions for COPD and
2023). The guidelines integrate evidence from systematic reviews and highlight the significance
of high-quality studies, particularly randomized controlled trials, which inform clinical practices,
treatment choices, and outcomes for COPD patients (Parums, 2023). Furthermore, they provide a
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framework for managing comorbid conditions and actively involve factors such as air pollution
Like GOLD, the ATS guidelines offer robust recommendations for diagnosing and
managing COPD. They evaluate clinical symptoms, historical exacerbations, and spirometry data
to create tailored patient management plans (Sharma et al., 2024). The ATS also emphasizes a
such as smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation (Sharma et al., 2024). Integrating these
elements provides a holistic strategy to improve patients' overall quality of life with COPD.
pharmacological management of COPD, as outlined by GOLD and ATS. These studies validate
the effectiveness of various therapies, including bronchodilators and corticosteroids, which are
fundamental in alleviating symptoms and reducing exacerbation frequency (Sharma et al., 2024).
management, given their profound impact on slowing disease progression (Sharma et al., 2024).
The guidelines encourage tailored pharmacotherapy based on the patient's specific group
include variations in clinician awareness of the guidelines, differences in health systems, and the
2019). Addressing these barriers is crucial for enhancing the consistency and quality of COPD
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) places significant emphasis on
smoking cessation interventions for adults, especially those with a prolonged smoking history
(Asiedu et al., 2023). This recommendation is crucial for our patient, underscoring the need for
evidence-based therapy.
Those guidelines are backed by robust evidence, including randomized controlled trials
Resources from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) also offer
tailored strategies for diverse populations, potentially bringing hope and optimism to the
patient’s journey as a transgender individual within a Hispanic community (Li et al., 2023). This
can include culturally relevant health education, access to resources, and developing programs to
improve physical and mental health. The commitment of the NHLBI to improving health
outcomes for diverse populations is ongoing and evolving. Continuous research and
collaboration with community organizations are essential for developing more effective
Diagnostics
Given the patient’s presentation and smoking history, several diagnostic tests are
appropriate and will provide additional insights into the underlying pathology of his respiratory
decline:
bronchiectasis, or other structural lung changes that may not be visible on a chest X-ray.
B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels: To exclude congestive heart failure if the
distress.
Genetic Testing: If indicated and appropriate, to assess for any hereditary lung
conditions.
Echocardiogram: To evaluate for cor pulmonale that may result from chronic lung
disease.
A six-minute walk test: To assesses the patient’s exercise tolerance and oxygen
function, including airflow, lung volume, and gas exchange, providing a comprehensive
administration
Diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) tests to measure how well oxygen
and carbon monoxide can pass from the lungs into the bloodstream, helping to assess the
Consultation Considerations
pulmonologist is crucial for managing severe COPD and its potential complications. The
pulmonologist can help interpret complex pulmonary function tests and provide access to
consulted to address the psychological aspects of the patient’s condition. Additionally, referrals
Medical Diagnoses
evidenced by cough with clear mucoid sputum and use of accessory muscles during
respiration.
4. Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity related to decreased mobility and potential edema from
respiratory compromise.
Engaging the patient in shared decision-making about his treatment plan while being
sensitive to his unique experiences and potential discrimination within the healthcare system is
Informed Consent: Ensuring the patient understands treatment options and implications
Cultural Competence: Providing care that respects cultural differences while addressing
based on gender identity and ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources (Roos et
al., 2023).
Treatment Plan
arterial blood gas results and maintain SpO2 ≥ 90%. Due to the hypercapnia risk in
immediate relief.
airway inflammation.
Advair Discus inhalation powder 100/50 mcg – inhale one puff twice daily
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ProAir HFA Inhaler (Albuterol sulfate 90 mcg) – inhale two puffs every 4-6 hours as
o Given a cough with clear mucoid sputum and acute exacerbation symptoms,
Azithromycin 250 mg tablet – take two tablets by mouth on day one, then one tablet for
four days.
o It can help patients with COPD by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways,
Mucinex 600 mg tablet – take one tablet by mouth twice daily (Arcangelo et al., 2022)
Goal: The patient will maintain adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide elimination.
Interventions:
immediate relief.
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o Educate the patient on using bronchodilators and assess the effectiveness of the
albuterol inhaler.
Goal: The patient will demonstrate adequate airway clearance and decrease sputum
production.
Interventions:
coughing techniques.
o Teach the patient pursed-lip breathing to slow respiratory rate and improve
oxygenation.
6. Activity Intolerance
Goal: The patient will demonstrate increased tolerance for physical activity with minimal
dyspnea.
Interventions:
activities.
and planning.
Interventions:
o Assess the skin regularly for signs of pressure ulcers, especially over bony
prominences.
o Educate the patient about the importance of mobility and preventing skin
breakdown.
Monitor the patient’s response to interventions and reassess respiratory status frequently
Adjust the care plan based on ongoing assessments and patient feedback.
Collaborate with the healthcare team for comprehensive management, including smoking
This plan should be continuously reassessed and tailored to the patient’s specific needs and
responses to treatment.
Complementary Therapies
Offer to the patient to explore the use of complementary therapies such as:
Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises: These exercises help manage anxiety related to
Evaluation
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In the next office visit for this patient, the primary focus will be on evaluating the
progression of his respiratory condition, given the signs of increased severity in his symptoms
and clinical findings. A comprehensive assessment will include repeat pulmonary function tests
(PFTs) to evaluate FEV1 and FEV1/FVC ratios, which should provide objective data on lung
function decline or stability (Zhou et al., 2013). Additionally, a series of arterial blood gases
(ABGs) will be re-checked to monitor oxygenation and acid-base balance changes (Rawashdeh,
2024). It will also be imperative to assess the patient’s inhaler technique and adherence to
review of smoking cessation options, including counseling and pharmacotherapy, will also be
Based on the repeat PFTs and ABGs, evaluating his clinical status will guide the decision
to continue the current management plan or make necessary adjustments. If tests indicate
as a third-line option. LAMAs are beneficial for patients with more severe symptoms or those
who experience exacerbations. Tailoring the treatment regimen based on the patient’s needs,
structural lung disease or complications are suspected (Yadav et al., 2023). Conversely, if data
shows no significant change in lung function or symptoms stabilize, there is potential for
improvement. In that case, we may continue with the current management, emphasizing the
to prevent further decline (Moharana et al., 2021). This emphasis on lifestyle modifications
should make the patient and his caregivers feel empowered and in control of the situation.
and well-being of individuals and communities across the United States. It achieves this by
setting science-based, national objectives for health improvement (Santana et al., 2021). The
initiative fosters collaboration among public health partners and employs data-driven methods to
develop long-term strategies for addressing prevalent health disparities and population
challenges. A key goal of Healthy People 2030 is to promote respiratory health, which includes
preventing respiratory diseases, enhancing asthma control, and ensuring access to appropriate
healthcare services for individuals with lung conditions. The initiative underscores the
importance of early detection and proactive management of respiratory diseases, particularly for
vulnerable populations affected by risk factors such as smoking and environmental hazards.
As public health professionals, policymakers, and healthcare providers, our role is crucial
in implementing the goals of Healthy People 2030. In the case of the 56-year-old transgender
Hispanic man presented, his significant smoking history, declining lung function, and current
symptoms of respiratory distress align closely with the initiative’s goals to enhance respiratory
health outcomes. Particularly relevant is reducing the burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions (Hasbrouck, 2021). Our health promotion
strategies aimed at individuals like him could involve cessation programs tailored to
acknowledge and address the unique contexts of his life, including sociocultural factors and
pulmonary rehabilitation, education about smoking cessation, and proactive management of his
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chronic respiratory condition can significantly contribute to improving his quality of life and
overall health outcomes while also addressing health disparities within his demographic group.
Incorporating the Circle of Caring involves engaging the patient’s family members and
support persons to enhance the patient’s care experience. Establishing family meetings to discuss
care goals and preferences can ensure that all voices are heard and a comprehensive management
plan aligned with the patient’s values is developed. Additionally, social workers or community
health workers familiar with LGBTQ+ resources may be included to facilitate access to
comprehensive care and ensure the patient’s voice is central in care planning.
such as smoking cessation strategies, nutritional guidance to improve energy levels, maintaining
Billing Codes
pulmonary diagnostics and chronic illness management. Each code corresponds to a specific
procedure or service, facilitating accurate billing practices. The following codes are frequently
suggested for use (Billing Guide for Asthma and COPD Care, 2023):
94060: This code is used for pulmonary diagnostic testing and therapies, which may
include spirometry and other pulmonary function tests designed to assess the patient's respiratory
status.
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94640: This code applies to inhalation treatments, specifically nebulizer therapy, which
helps patients manage respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD).
99213: This code is designated for established patient office visits lasting 20 to 29
99406: This code pertains to counseling visits focused on smoking and tobacco use
cessation. It is considered an intermediate visit for counseling that lasts greater than 3 minutes
but less than 10 minutes, which is crucial for patients seeking to quit smoking.
Follow Up
The patient should return for a follow-up visit in 4 to 6 weeks to reassess his symptoms,
response to the new medications, and any adjustments needed. During this visit, pulmonary
function tests (PFTs) should be repeated to evaluate his response to treatment and monitor his
arterial blood gases (ABGs) to ensure his hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis resolve. He
worsening symptoms or acute exacerbations before the scheduled follow-up. This proactive
approach empowers the patient and ensures active involvement in their care. Regular follow-
Conclusion
psychosocial elements. Treating respiratory conditions entails continuous assessment and tailored
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interventions guided by national guidelines, underpinned by respect for the patient's identity. A
holistic care plan emphasizes patient and family engagement while addressing health disparities
and ensuring equitable access to resources. Regular follow-ups and adjustments of the
management plan based on the patient's progress are vital in providing adequate care and
supporting the patient’s overall health and wellness. This methodology enhances clinical
outcomes and bolsters patient confidence in their treatment journey (Roos et al., 2023).
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