The spirometry results are consistent with obstructive pulmonary disease. First, the FVC
is low. The FEV1 is also low but lower than FVC. A person with the obstructive
pulmonary disease can barely exhale quickly because of enhanced airway resistance.
Consequently, the FEV1/FVC ratio is lower than expected (Respiration lab: Lung
diseases (obstructive/restrictive), n.d.). The patient’s breathing challenges and possible
airflow blockage are consistent with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. Explain the pathophysiology associated with the chosen pulmonary disease.
COPD is a deadly health condition that affects a person’s lungs and breathing ability. It
mainly begins with damaged airways, plus the lungs’ tiny sacs. As a result, air cannot
flow efficiently in their lungs (Eapen et al., 2017). Patients experience massive resistance,
challenging their normal breathing.
3. Identify at least three subjective findings from the case which support the chosen
diagnosis.
First, a 61-year-old male claims to experience shortness of breath. He also complains of
fatigue. The patient claims to experience a dry, non-productive cough.
4. Identify at least three objective findings from the case which support the chosen
diagnosis:
The patient has a respiratory rate (RR) of 22. Although it is not above 25, which is
considered COPD exacerbation signs, RR 22 is beyond a standard range of 12 and 20
(Sakhaei et al., 2018). Second, the patient has a SaO2 of 82 percent, below the normal
range of 88-92 percent (Colmenares & Moreno, 2019). Finally, the patient’s oral mucous
membranes are dry. Although it is a dramatic symptom, dry mouth is standard among
patients with COPD
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