EMPYEMA

PRESENTED BY:
MIS. M.K.KAKU
NURSING TUTOR
 Definition
• Empyema is a collection of pus in
the cavity between the lung and
membrane that surrounds it.( Pleural
space)
• It consist of effusion containing
polymorphonuclear leukocytes and
fibrin.
 Stages of empyema
• There are three stages of empyema:
1. Exudative stage: In this phase the pus
accumulates in the pleural space.
2. Fibrinopurulent: In this phase the creation of
of grapelike pocket of pus may occur.
3. Organizing: In this phase the scarring may
occur which reduces lungs to fully expand.
 Causes of Risk factor
• Empyema is caused by infection spreads from the lung and leads to an
accumulation of pus in the pleural space.
• The most common organisms are:
 Streptococcus pneumonie
 Haemophilus influenzae
 Streptococcus aures
• Risk factors includes:
o Bacterial Pneumonia
o Lung abscess
o Thoracic surgery
o Trauma to the chest
 Clinical menifestation
• Clinical manifestations includes,
 Shortness of breath
 Dry cough
 Fever and Chills
 Excessive sweating
 Malaise
 Unintentional weight loss
 Chest pain
 Decreased breath sounds
 Diagnosis
• History and physical examination
• Thoracentesis
• Gram stain and the culture of pleural fluid
• CT Scan
• Chest X –ray
 Management
• Antibiotics to control the infection : The
commonly used drugs are Penicillin and
Vancomycin.
• Oxygen therapy
• Surgical treatment is done according to stage of
empyema:
 Drainage of fluid by Thoracentesis
 Decortication
 Chest tube insertion to drain the fluid
 Nursing management
• Assess the vitals
• Administer drugs as prescribed
• If chest tube inserted,
 Check for patency of it.
 check for any bubbles are there.
 Maintain aseptic technique
 Prevent complications
 Encourage patient for deep breathing