pneumonia, COPD, Parkinson’s, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, Asthma, joint replacement, psoriasis, and others. Grading Criteria   In order to get the full grade you must have all this aspects  Presents the case including CC, HPI, Hx, ROS and PE findings concisely  List possible differential diagnosis with supporting/excluding criteria.  What labs or tests are typically ordered in relation to this condition? What results should the NP expects to see with this diagnosis? What medications are typically prescribed for this condition? List specific drugs, starting doses, dose ranges, precautions to keep in mind when prescribing these drugs. What are the outcomes expected or unexpected for this specific condition? And What patient outcomes will trigger a referral? Provide patient teaching materials specific to their condition

CLINICAL PRACTICE: ASTHMA

Asthma affects millions around the world. Asthma is caused by the inflammation and narrowing airways. Symptoms include wheezing or coughing as well as chest pain and shortness. This presentation will discuss the current asthma treatment guidelines based on professional associations.

Case presentation: A female 35 years old presents at the clinic complaining of wheezing and coughing. She also complains of shortness of breathe. The symptoms have been present for three weeks and are getting worse. She is allergic and has asthma.

Differential Diagnosis

1. Asthma exacerbation
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
3. Pneumonia
4. Pulmonary embolism

Diagnostic Tests:

1. Spirometry
2. Peak expiratory flow (PEFR).
3. Chest X ray
4. Tests of blood (CBC and ABG).

Medications:

1. Albuterol is a short-acting bronchodilator.
2. Long-acting bronchodilators (e.g., salmeterol)
3. Inhaled Corticosteroids
4. Leukotriene modifiers (e.g., montelukast)
5. Combination therapy (e.g., fluticasone/salmeterol)

Expected outcomes:

1. It can help with symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing or shortness of breathe.
2. Spirometry (or PEFR) measures an increase in lung function.
3. Reduce the severity and frequency of asthma attacks.

Referral Criteria

1. Ineffective initial treatment
2. Severe asthma exacerbation requiring hospitalization
3. Specialist consultation is required (e.g. allergists, pulmonologists)

Patients Teaching

1. Use the correct inhaler technique
2. Asthma action plan
3. Avoid triggers (e.g. smoke, allergens).
4. If symptoms worsen, seek medical care

Asthma requires continuous management. The treatment recommendations come from professional associations and may include bronchodilators and inhaled steroids. Education of the patient is essential to obtaining optimal results. This should include correct inhaler technique and asthma action plans, as well as trigger avoidance. In certain situations, a referral to a specialist might be needed.