5.1 Introduction to Respiratory System and Medications
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to
1. Describe the respiratory system, its functions, and its main components
2. Describe common respiratory system pathologies
3. Define the effects of bronchodilator medications on the airway
4. Identify medications for treating respiratory conditions, both generic and brand names
5. Define what is meant by a “combination medication” to treat respiratory disorders
Chapter Overview
Every year, millions of Canadians visit their healthcare provider for respiratory conditions such as allergies, asthma, bronchitis, the common cold, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia.
Because of the high number of people with respiratory-related illnesses, theses conditions affect individuals and their families, schools, workplaces, neighbourhoods, cities, and provinces. As a result of the prevalence of respiratory-related illnesses, it is likely all of us know someone, or of someone, with one of these conditions. This makes it even more important to be familiar with these conditions and how they are treated. Before we learn about medications that are used to treat respiratory conditions, it is integral that we review the respiratory system, its components, and the pathologies that can affect it.
Attribution
Unless otherwise indicated, material on this page has been adapted from the following resource:
Ernstmeyer, K., & Christman, E. (Eds.). (2020). Nursing pharmacology. Chippewa Valley Technical College. https://wtcs.pressbooks.pub/pharmacology/, licensed under CC BY 4.0
