Essay --

This paper explores the relationship of the pathogenicity of the opportunistic bacterium P. aeruginosa specifically related to the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis and the impact they have on patient care and nursing. Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening, immunosuppressing genetic disorder unto itself, but is a primary cause of opportunistic infection. Studies show that  ¬P. aeruginosa infections, common and often chronic and lethal in CF cases, are most often established between ages 0-3 years in a CF patient and develop undetected until the infection is well established and difficult to treat. Because of physical complications related to a child’s age, immunosuppression exhibited by those affected with cystic fibrosis, versatile nature of the pathogen’s virulence and wide array of habitable environments, and comorbid factors the pathogen contributes to mortality among infected hosts, it is imperative that thorough diagnostic, preventative, and treatment measures be taken regularly and begun as early as possible with a cystic fibrosis infant in order to reduce prevalence and incidence of chronic lung infection. Nursing responsibilities include administration of long-term therapeutic medications, parental teaching, lifestyle planning, maintaining optimal health and vigil monitoring in the clinical setting, referrals, and improving the affected child’s overall growth, development, and happiness. â€Æ' P. aeruginosa in Young Children with Cystic Fibrosis The nature of an immunosuppressing disease among infants invites infection from bacteria normally a part of our normal flora. P. aeruginosa, a common hydrophilic bacterium found in most environments high in moisture, exhibits little virulence until it successfully invades the tissu... ... a necessity, especially during times of hot weather, fever, and excessive exercise in order to prevent hyponatremia. (Nettina, 2010) The nurse should actively encourage the parents to seek ongoing education about their child’s disease and share CF information with family members, teachers, school nurse, and anyone who would care for the child. It may be beneficial to refer the family for social work or support groups dedicated to CF. The nurse should also stress the importance of regular medical care and to pay attention to advances in treatment, recommending several pulmonary function tests, respiratory cultures, and liver enzyme analyses per year. Parent education regarding proactive roles in their child’s health care generally increases the child’s quality of life and longevity and promotes optimal development and growth. (Nettina, 2010; Porth & Matfin, 2009)