Pneumonia: diagnosis, monitoring and management in nursing practice

Pneumonia is a common and potentially life-threatening acute respiratory infection that continues to cause high levels of illness and hospitalisation in the UK. It affects the lung parenchyma and patients may present with fever, cough, chest pain, sputum production and difficulty in breathing. While it can affect people of any age, it is particularly risky at extreme ages. Timely recognition, evidence-based care and holistic support are essential to optimise outcomes for patients and families. Nurses have a central role in the care of patients with pneumonia, including in recognition of severity, referral to hospital, oxygen support, nutrition and hydration, monitoring, ensuring adherence to antibiotic regimens and in discharge planning and follow-up. They are also involved in prevention and advising patients and families. Recent updates to national guidance present opportunities and responsibilities for nurses in assessment, monitoring, patient education and ensuring safety in treatment.