Reference no: EM133922509

Question

Mr. P. is a 35-year-old man with a history of cystic fibrosis. He is married and has a young son. His chronic illness has been medically managed at a tertiary center 150 miles from his home. However, his pulmonary status has progressively deteriorated over the past 3 months, and he now requires continuous oxygen therapy along with his standard medical management. Being placed on the transplant list is one option proposed to Mr. P. and his wife.

1. Because Mr. P. has been successfully managed for treatment of the cystic fibrosis, Mr. and Mrs. P. weigh the pros and cons of placing him on the transplant list. Why might they be concerned about a lung transplant for Mr. P.?

2. What is the lung allocation score used in evaluating candidates? Why is this score helpful in determining who gets priority for a transplant?

3. Mr. and Mrs. P. agree to his being placed on the transplant list as his condition is progressively worsening. Shortly thereafter, Mr. P. is hospitalized in the tertiary care center, and mechanical ventilation is imminent if a transplant is not performed. Organs become available; however, they are positive for cytomegalovirus (CMV). Given the criteria for donors, why are CMV-positive lungs being considered?

4. Mr. P. agrees to the transplant and undergoes successful surgery. He is extubated within 12 hours of surgery. What are some important postoperative nursing interventions after extubation?