Less than normal inflation of all or a portion
of the lung with corresponding dimunition in volume.
Occurs frequently after
It is a "radiographic" diagnosis, with linear densities and
crowded markings in .
Often accompanied with fever although it is not thought to
cause fever. Count the number of ribs that lung
inflates, to quantify loss of volume.
Can also be the result of supine position.
If patient can tolerate, put patient upright to open up lungs
more and if not on a ventilator give incentive spirometry.
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