Mandatory Discussion Question

Use the image in “Discussion Question Resource: Chest X-Ray” to answer the following Critical Thinking Questions.

Examine the x-ray of a patient diagnosed with pneumonia due to infection with Mucor. Refer to the “Module 4 DQ Chest Xray” resource in order to complete the following questions.

Critical Thinking Questions

1. Explain what Mucor is and how a patient is likely to become infected with Mucor. Describe the pathophysiologic progression of the infection into pneumonia and at least two medical/nursing interventions that would be helpful in treating the patient.
2. Examine the laboratory blood test results and arterial blood gases provided in “Discussion Question Resource: Laboratory Blood Test Results.” What laboratory values are considered abnormal? Explain each abnormality and discuss the probable causes from a pathophysiologic perspective.
3. What medications and medical treatments are likely to be prescribed by the attending physician on this case? List at least three medications and three treatments. Provide rationale for each of the medications and treatments you suggest.

PLEASE REVIEW THESE LAB VALUES BEFORE REPLYING AND VIEW IMAGE IF YOU CAN

Discussion Question Resource: Laboratory Blood Test Results

Laboratory Blood Test Results and Arterial Blood Gases

Na          141 meq/L

Mg                     1.7 mg/dL

pH          7.50

K            4.5 meq/L

PO4                   2.9 mg/dL

PaO2      59 mm Hg on room air

Cl           105 meq/L

Glu, fasting       138 mg/dL

PaCO2   25 mm Hg

HCO3    29 meq/L

Hb                     13.7 g/dL

BUN      16 mg/dL

Hct                    39.4%

Cr           0.9 mg/dL

WBC                 15,200/mm³

Ca          8.7 mg/dL

Lymphocytes    10%