Clinical Case Studies: Asthma Management and Wound Care

Asthma Management Case Study

Patient: Michael Adams, 55-year-old male.

History: Diagnosed with asthma in early adulthood. No other relevant medical conditions or drug allergies. Uses a salbutamol inhaler as needed and a preventer inhaler twice daily.

Emergency Presentation

Admitted to A&E on Thursday afternoon following increasing shortness of breath and wheezing while cleaning his garage. Symptoms included chest tightness, wheezing, and anxiety.

Clinical Assessment

• SpO₂: 89% on room air
• RR: 28 bpm
• BP: 140/85 mmHg
• HR: 102 bpm
• Peak Flow: Below normal range

The patient admitted to inconsistent use of his preventer inhaler. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition causing airway narrowing, which can lead to acute exacerbations if treatment is not followed correctly.

Treatment and Discharge

Treated with nebulised salbutamol, oxygen therapy, and oral corticosteroids, resulting in gradual improvement. Upon discharge, oxygen saturation reached 96% on room air. The nurse reinforced the importance of daily preventer inhaler use, correct technique, and trigger avoidance (e.g., dust). A follow-up with his GP is scheduled to review his asthma action plan.

Wound Care Case Study

Patient: Anna Lewis, 41-year-old female.

History: No relevant past medical history or known allergies.

Emergency Presentation

Admitted to A&E on Saturday afternoon after sustaining a deep 5 cm linear laceration to her right forearm caused by a kitchen knife. Symptoms included pain and bleeding at the wound site.

Clinical Assessment and Treatment

Examination confirmed moderate bleeding with no nerve or tendon damage. Vital signs were stable. The wound was cleaned, irrigated with saline, and closed with sutures under local anaesthetic. A sterile dressing was applied, and a tetanus booster was administered due to uncertain vaccination status.

Post-Treatment Advice

The patient was instructed to:

• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, or discharge).
• Change the dressing daily.
• Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

A follow-up appointment is scheduled at her GP surgery in 7–10 days for suture removal.