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Delivery Systems for Respiratory Medications |   |
In addition to activities related to gas exchange, the respiratory system is responsible for a variety of other vital functions. One function of the upper airway to assure that inspired gases are warmed and adequately humidified. Another function involves protecting the lungs by filtering inspired gas. RCPs need to understand basic concepts of humidification and aerosol systems in order to treat patients whose airway mechanisms are compromised.
Aerosol and humidity therapy are provided to maintain normal physiologic conditions and as therapy for pathologic conditions. One of the most important, but least understood, aspects of pulmonary care is the role of humidity therapy. Many care providers and most patients do not appreciate the role of hydration in liquifying secretions and facilitating the natural flow of mucus from the lower airways.
Pulmonary patients need adequate humidification of their inspired gases and controlled fluid balance, otherwise patients can become dehydrated. Dehydration can make secretions more viscous and inhibit the mucociliary escalator activity of the airways, making secretions difficult to dislodge. If these cause block functional gas flow through the distal airways infections, atelectasis and other respiratory problems can easily occur.