After reviewing this chapter the reader should be able to:
1. Identify host defenses for preventing lower respiratory tract infections.
2. Discuss the epidemiology, etiology, and pathogenesis of common lower respiratory tract infections.
3. Compare and contrast the clinical manifestations of various lower respiratory tract infections.
4. Recommend appropriate examinations and laboratory tests to assist in the diagnosis of various lower respiratory tract infections.
5. Recommend appropriate nonpharmacological therapy for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections.
6. Recommend appropriate pharmacological therapy for the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections, including both symptomatic therapies as well as selecting antimicrobial agents for eradicating associated pathogens.
7. Differentiate between bronchitis and bronchiolitis.
8. Compare and contrast acute versus chronic bronchitis.
9. Differentiate between bacterial and nonbacterial pneumonia.
10. Discuss common pathogens associated with pneumonia in various clinical arenas.
11. Select appropriate antimicrobial agents for the treatment of pneumonia based on the clinical setting and the respective dominating pathogens.
12. Compare and contrast between adult and pediatric patients the most commonly isolated pathogens associated with lower respiratory tract infections.
13. Propose strategies that may be employed to prevent or reduce the occurrence of lower respiratory tract infections.
14. List respiratory pathogens and complications observed in immunocompromised patients.
15. Apply knowledge of prescribed antimicrobials in providing patient-specific counseling in order to optimize therapy.
