6.3 General Respiratory System Assessment and Interventions

When assessing a client with respiratory system alterations, the nurse must consider risk factors, cultural, and socioeconomic factors that may impact health. Health history, physical examination findings, and diagnostic test results will also play an important role in respiratory system assessment. This section will discuss common assessments, diagnostic tests, and interventions that apply to a variety of respiratory alterations.

Risk Factors

A comprehensive assessment of risk factors allows nurses to identify individuals at risk for respiratory disease and implement prevention interventions. Nurses also consider modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors that may influence a client’s health.^[1]

Respiratory risk factors include the following:

• Tobacco Use: One of the most significant modifiable risk factors for respiratory health is tobacco use. Smoking tobacco and exposure to secondhand smoke are linked to a myriad of respiratory conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. An individual’s smoking history, including duration and number of packs smoked daily, is used to assess their risk for developing respiratory disease. To calculate an individual’s pack years of smoking, multiply the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years the individual has smoked. The pack years of smoking measurement assists providers in understanding cumulative exposure and potential for lung damage and implementing effective preventive interventions.^[2],[3]
• Environmental Exposures: Individuals may be exposed to a range of environmental factors that can impact their respiratory health. Occupational hazards, indoor air pollution, and outdoor air quality can all contribute to the development or exacerbation of respiratory conditions.^[4],[5]
• Allergies and Sensitivities: Allergies and sensitivities to airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold, can trigger respiratory alterations like asthma.^[6],[7],[8]
• Chronic Medical Conditions: Chronic medical conditions, such as obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can have a direct impact on respiratory health. Obesity can lead to reduced lung function and increased risk of sleep apnea, while GERD can contribute to conditions like chronic cough, asthma, and aspiration pneumonia.^{[9],[10],[11]}
• Family History: A family history of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or lung cancer, can provide valuable insights into an individual’s genetic predisposition to respiratory issues. Family history is used to assess genetic risk factors and plan appropriate screenings and interventions.^{[12],[13],[14]}
• Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle factors, including diet, physical activity, stress management, and sleep patterns, can also impact respiratory health. Unhealthy dietary choices, sedentary behavior, and chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and compromise immune function, increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.^{[15],[16],[17]}

Cultural Factors

Cultural factors encompass a wide range of social, behavioral, and environmental elements that are shaped by cultural norms, beliefs, and practices. These factors can impact an individual’s risk of developing respiratory health alterations. For example, in some cultures, smoking is deeply ingrained as a social or ceremonial practice, while in other cultures, it may be discouraged or even considered taboo. Understanding these cultural attitudes is crucial when assessing an individual’s risk of smoking-related conditions and planning interventions to promote smoking cessation.

Cultural dietary practices can also influence respiratory health, especially in relation to allergies and asthma. Some cultural dietary preferences include foods that may exacerbate allergies or contribute to inflammation, whereas other cultures emphasize dietary patterns that promote lung health. Cultural practices related to cooking methods, fuel sources, and housing construction can also contribute to indoor air pollution, which can increase the risk of respiratory conditions.^{[18],[19],[20]}

Socioeconomic Factors

Socioeconomic factors encompass a range of economic and social determinants that influence living conditions, access to health care, and lifestyle choices. Lower income levels are associated with an increased risk of developing respiratory health alterations. Individuals with limited financial resources may face challenges in accessing health care services, have decreased ability to purchase prescribed medications, or may live in environments with increased pollution that triggers health conditions like asthma or COPD. Individuals with limited financial resources may also delay seeking medical attention due to its cost, leading to advanced disease before it is diagnosed. Lower educational achievement can also impact an individual’s ability to navigate the complex health care system or understand potential treatment options without assistance.^[21],[22]

Environmental work hazards can also impact respiratory health. Some occupations, such as construction, agriculture, or manufacturing, may expose workers to environmental hazards like dust, chemicals, or airborne pollutants, increasing their risk of respiratory alterations.^[23],[24]

Assessment

A comprehensive assessment of an individual’s overall health is essential because the respiratory system plays a critical role in maintaining the body’s overall functioning. Respiratory alterations can have significant consequences that not only impact respiratory health but also can affect other body systems.

Health History

Nurses gather a detailed health history, paying close attention to personal or family history of respiratory disorders. Questions should include inquiries about asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, bronchitis, or other respiratory conditions.^[25]

Family history plays a pivotal role in the emergence of respiratory health alterations. A family history of respiratory diseases in first-degree relatives, such as parents, siblings, or children, can indicate an increased genetic risk for respiratory issues. A close family or significant other’s history of smoking should also be considered because secondhand smoke can impact an individual’s respiratory health.^[26]

Nurses assess risk factors known to impact respiratory health. These may include a history of smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants. Detailed information about smoking habits, including pack years, is essential to assess the level of risk. The presence of allergies can also influence respiratory health and should be documented during the assessment.^[27]

Travel history and geographical area of residence can also play a role in risk of respiratory health alterations. For example, international travel history can reveal exposure to endemic respiratory infections (e.g., tuberculosis or respiratory viruses). Geographic areas of residence can also pose respiratory risks. Urban areas often have higher levels of air pollution and industrial emissions, increasing the risk of respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD. In contrast, rural areas may pose risks related to agricultural exposures or limited access to health care resources.^[28],[29]

Physical Exam

Conducting a thorough examination of body systems provides the nurse with cues regarding potential respiratory disorders. Early identification of abnormal findings and notification of the health care provider can lead to prompt intervention and management and improve client outcomes. Table 6.3a summarizes assessments for each body system.

Table 6.3a. Manifestations of Respiratory Alterations by Body System^{[30],[31],[32]}

Focused Respiratory Physical Exam

Respiratory assessment involves a systematic examination of various components, including the nose and sinuses, pharynx, trachea, larynx, lungs, thorax, skin, mucous membranes, general appearance, and activity tolerance.^[35]

Nose & Sinuses

• Visually examine the external nose for any deformities, asymmetry, or lesions. Ask the client about nasal congestion, discharge, or frequent nosebleeds, which can indicate sinus or nasal issues.

Pharynx, Trachea, and Larynx

• Use a tongue depressor and a light source to examine the pharynx, looking for any redness, swelling, tonsillar enlargement, or lesions. Ask the client to say “Ah” to assess the movement of the soft palate and uvula and assess the presence of a gag reflex. Assess the trachea for midline positioning. Inspect and palpate the neck for any enlarged lymph nodes or masses. Listen for a husky voice or other voice changes.

Lungs & Thorax

• Observe the client’s chest for shape, symmetry, and any visible abnormalities such as deformities or masses. Use your hands to assess chest expansion, tenderness, crepitus (crackling), or masses. Listen to breath sounds with a stethoscope and note any areas of decreased breath sounds or adventitious sounds such as wheezing, rhonchi (coarse crackles), or rales (fine crackles).

Skin and Mucous Membranes

• Examine the skin for pallor, cyanosis (bluish or grayish discoloration), or clubbing of the fingernails. Check mucous membranes (e.g., lips and gums) for color, moisture, and any signs of dehydration.

General Appearance

• Observe the client’s general appearance for signs of distress, such as increased work of breathing, use of accessory muscles, or restlessness. Assess the respiratory rate and pattern of breathing. Check for increased anterior-posterior ratio of the chest. If the client is experiencing shortness of breath, assess their ability to speak in sentences or their limitation to speaking in phrases or words.

Endurance

• Evaluate the client’s ability to engage in activity without experiencing shortness of breath. Inquire about any limitations in physical activity or recent changes in endurance.

Life Span Considerations

Infants and Children

There are differences in the pediatric respiratory system compared to an adult. Key differences in the pediatric respiratory system include the following^[36],[37]:

• Newborns may have insufficient surfactant, especially if preterm, that can severely impact gas exchange due to alveoli collapse.
• Periods of apnea are common in newborns.
• Infants have faster respiratory rates with increased metabolic needs. For example, the normal respiratory rate for a newborn is 30-60 breaths per minute.
• Infants are obligatory nose breathers. If their nose or nasal passage becomes occluded, they can develop respiratory distress.
• Infants produce little respiratory mucus, so their coughs are nonproductive, thus increasing their risk for respiratory infection.
• Infants and young children have smaller airways, making it easier for them to become occluded with mucus or foreign objects.
• Young children have enlarged tonsillar tissue that can occlude the pharynx, especially when suffering from an upper respiratory infection.
• Infants and young children have a more flexible larynx, making it susceptible to spasm.
• Signs of respiratory distress in infants include respiratory rate greater than 60 breaths per minute, expiratory grunting, nasal flaring on inspiration, or sternal and intercostal retractions.

Older Adults

As individuals age, these changes occur that affect the lungs and breathing^[38]: 

• Changes to the bones and muscles of the chest and spine: Bones become thinner, and the shape of the rib cage may change. As a result, the rib cage may not expand and contract as well during breathing. The diaphragm also becomes weakened and can decrease the ability to inhale.
• Changes to lung tissue: Muscles and other tissues near the airways may lose their ability to keep the airways completely open, causing them to close easily. The air sacs in the alveoli lose their shape and become baggy. These changes in lung tissue can allow air to become trapped in the lungs, decreasing the amount of gas exchange at the alveolar level.
• Changes to the nervous system: The part of the brain that controls breathing may lose some of its function. Nerves in the airways that trigger coughing also become less sensitive. Large amounts of particles like smoke or germs may collect in the lungs and may be hard to cough up.
• Changes to the immune system: The immune system can get weaker, making it more difficult for the body to fight lung infections and other diseases. The lungs are also less able to recover after exposure to smoke or other harmful particles.

As a result of these changes, older adults are at increased risk for the following^[39]:

• Lung infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis
• Shortness of breath
• Lower oxygen saturation levels
• Abnormal breathing patterns, resulting in problems such as sleep apnea (episodes of stopped breathing during sleep)

Signs of Hypoxia and Respiratory Distress

Nurses must recognize and report early signs of hypoxia to prevent the client from progressing to respiratory arrest, the cessation of breathing. Hypoxia can have many causes, ranging from respiratory and cardiac conditions to anemia. Signs and symptoms of hypoxia and respiratory distress are as follows^[40]:

• New onset or worsening dyspnea: Dyspnea is a subjective symptom of not getting enough air. Depending on severity, dyspnea causes increased levels of anxiety.
• Restlessness
• New onset confusion or worsening level of consciousness
• Tachycardia: An elevated heart rate (greater than 100 beats per minute in adults) can be an early sign of hypoxia as the heart compensates for decreased oxygenation.
• Tachypnea: A sustained increased respiration rate (above 20 breaths per minute in an adult) is a sign of respiratory distress.
• Worsening oxygen saturation level (SpO2): Oxygen saturation levels should be above 92% for an adult in room air. If oxygen therapy is already in place and SpO2 continues to decrease, this is also a sign of respiratory distress.
• Use of accessory muscles
• Noisy breathing: Audible noises with breathing are an indication of respiratory conditions.
• Positioning: Clients with dyspnea tend to sit up and lean over by resting their arms on their legs, referred to as the tripod position, to enhance lung expansion. They typically feel worse shortness of breath when lying flat in bed and avoid the supine position.
• Ability of client to speak in full sentences: Clients in respiratory distress may be unable to speak in full sentences or may need to catch their breath between sentences.
• Cyanosis: Bluish changes in skin color and mucus membranes is a late sign of hypoxia.

Psychosocial Assessment

Psychosocial factors can play a significant role in the experience of individuals dealing with respiratory problems. Stress and psychological well-being can impact the symptoms and management of respiratory conditions, and chronic respiratory conditions can also significantly affect an individual’s sense of well-being.

Stress and anxiety can worsen respiratory symptoms by triggering a “flight or fight” response, thereby increasing respiratory rate and causing shallow respirations. Rapid, shallow breathing can worsen the clinical status of individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma. Prolonged stress can also weaken an individual’s immune system, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Individuals who have chronic respiratory disease may experience stress and anxiety as a result of their feelings of dyspnea. This anxiety may result in social isolation as the individual attempts to avoid environmental triggers (like smoke) or the fear of appearing symptomatic in public. Additionally, chronic disease can also lead to financial stress due to the cost of medications and respiratory equipment.

To help individuals cope with psychosocial challenges associated with respiratory problems, nurses can provide support in numerous ways. Clients may benefit from stress reduction techniques such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and yoga. Individuals may also benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation or peer support programs.

Laboratory and Diagnostic Testing

Diagnostic testing is ordered by health care providers to identify and diagnose respiratory conditions. There are various laboratory and diagnostic results that nurses review related to a comprehensive respiratory assessment and development of an effective nursing care plan.

Laboratory Tests

Common laboratory tests related to respiratory assessment include red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), white blood cells (WBCs), and arterial blood gas (ABG)^[41],[42]:

• Red Blood Cells (RBCs): This test measures the number of red blood cells in a given volume of blood. Low RBC counts (i.e., anemia) can lead to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, which can impact respiratory function.
• Hemoglobin (Hgb) and Hematocrit (HCT): Hemoglobin (hGB) is a protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen. Low hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia, which can cause respiratory symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and reduced activity tolerance. Hematocrit (HCT) measures the percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. Low hematocrit levels are also associated with anemia and can affect oxygen transport in the bloodstream, although they can also be affected by an individual’s fluid balance.
• White Blood Cells (WBCs): White blood cell levels indicate the immune system’s response to fight infections. Elevated WBC counts can be a sign of an infection or inflammation in the respiratory system, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
• Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs): ABG analysis involves measuring the levels of dissolved oxygen (PaO2), dissolved carbon dioxide (PaCO2), pH, bicarbonate (HCO3-), and oxygen saturation (SaO2) in arterial blood. ABGs provide valuable information about a client’s respiratory and metabolic status. When assessing a client in respiratory distress, one of the most definitive signs requiring medical intervention is abnormal ABG results.
  • PaO2: PaO2 is the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood. Low PaO2 levels indicate hypoxemia.
  • PaCO2: PaCO2 is the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood. High PaCO2 levels, referred to as hypercapnia, may be seen in acute conditions like acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • pH: pH refers to the blood’s acidity or alkalinity. Abnormally low pH levels can indicate respiratory acidosis (resulting from elevated PaCO2 levels) or metabolic acidosis. Abnormally high pH levels can indicate respiratory alkalosis (caused by reduced PaCO2 levels) or metabolic alkalosis.
  • HCO3-: Bicarbonate levels reflect the body’s metabolic compensation for respiratory acid-base imbalances. Elevated HCO3- may indicate compensation by the kidneys for respiratory acidosis.
  • SaO2: Oxygen saturation measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is carrying oxygen. A low SaO2 indicates poor oxygenation of the blood.

Sputum Tests

Sputum refers to the mucus and other material that is coughed up by a client from the lower airways (bronchi and lungs) and can be examined for diagnostic purposes. Sputum tests can help identify the presence of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi in the respiratory tract. It can also contain inflammatory markers like white blood cells that can indicate inflammation in the airways.

Sputum culture and sensitivity tests help determine the specific type of bacteria that is causing a respiratory infection and its susceptibility and responsiveness to different antibiotics. Sputum samples may also undergo cytology testing that detects the presence of abnormal cells, such as lung cancer.^[43]

Diagnostic Tests

Common diagnostic tests for respiratory alterations include radiographic examinations, pulmonary functions tests, bronchoscopy, and thoracentesis.

Radiographic Examinations

Radiographic examinations refer to imaging that provides information about the structure and function of the respiratory system. These tests allow providers to diagnose and monitor the progression of different respiratory conditions, as well as evaluate the client’s response to treatment. Common radiographic examinations are as follows:

• Standard Chest X-Rays: A standard chest X-ray provides a quick and relatively low-radiation way to visualize the chest area, including the lungs, heart, ribs, and diaphragm. It is useful for identifying lung abnormalities like pneumonia, tuberculosis, cancerous masses, and pleural effusions. Chest X-rays also allow for the visualization of the heart and can help identify rib and chest wall injuries. See Figure 6.11^[44] for an image of a chest X-ray on a healthy individual.
• Digital Chest Radiography: Digital chest radiography provides an advanced form of chest-ray imaging, allowing for improved image quality, digital retrieval, and comparison to previous X-rays, as well as remote consultation with other health care providers. Digital radiography also causes less radiation exposure.
• Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans provide cross-sectional, three dimensional images of the chest and lungs. They allow for a detailed examination of the size and shape of organs, as well as lesions and nodules. CT scans are helpful for staging lung cancer, evaluating trauma, and detecting blood clots in the lungs. CTs are also helpful for guiding more invasive procedures such as lung biopsies and drain tube insertion.
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: A PET scan is a medical imaging technique that provides information about the metabolic and functional activity of tissues within the body. PET scans utilize a small amount of radioactive substance injected into the client’s bloodstream that is metabolized more rapidly by tumors or regions of inflammation.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI can provide detailed images of the chest that are useful for evaluating vascular conditions, detecting lung tumors, and assessing congenital anomalies.
• Fluoroscopy: Fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that can assess the movement of the diaphragm and chest structures during respiration. It is useful for examining obstruction and guiding invasive procedures like bronchoscopy.
• Lung Biopsy: A medical procedure where a small piece of lung tissue is removed and analyzed under a microscope. The test may be performed using a needle, an open procedure or through a bronchoscope.  The approach depends on the client’s underlying health and the location of the tissue to be examined.
• Capnography: A sensor that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide exhaled, translated into a waveform and numerical value.
• V/Q Scan: A ventilation-perfusion (VQ) scan is a diagnostic test used to assess lung function and rule out pulmonary embolism. In this test, a radioactive substance is inhaled (ventilation) and injected into the bloodstream (perfusion). Areas with normal ventilation but reduced perfusion may indicate a pulmonary embolism. The VQ scan helps aid in the diagnosis or exclusion of pulmonary embolism without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation from traditional imaging methods.^[45],[46]

Pulmonary Function Tests

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of noninvasive diagnostic tests that assess the function of the respiratory system. These tests provide valuable information about lung capacity, airflow, and gas exchange. Common pulmonary function tests include spirometry, diffusion capacity testing, and bronchial responsiveness tests.

• Spirometry is useful for diagnosing conditions like asthma and COPD by providing information about lung volume and airflow resistance. See Figure 6.12^[47] for an image of an individual performing a spirometry test by breathing into a machine with the nostrils occluded. Spirometry involves the examination of these lung function parameters:
  • Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1): The volume of air exhaled in the first second of forced expiration.
  • Forced vital capacity (FVC): The maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a deep inhalation.
  • FEV1/FVC ratio: This ratio of FEV1 and FVC is used to assess airflow obstruction.
• Diffusion capacity testing measures the lung’s ability to transfer gases from alveoli into the bloodstream. Diffusion capacity testing is useful for detecting gas exchange disorders such as emphysema and pulmonary embolism.
• Bronchial responsiveness testing measures the responsiveness of the airway after it has been exposed to an allergen or bronchoconstrictive substance. This test is useful for diagnosing asthma.^[48]

Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure used to directly view airway structures and obtain tissue samples for biopsy or culture. During a bronchoscopy procedure, a provider will insert a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light through the nostril or oropharynx to visualize the airway structures and obtain samples. Because this is an invasive procedure, clients must provide written informed consent acknowledging their understanding of the procedure and its risks after they are explained by the health care provider.

To prevent complications such as aspiration, clients should be instructed to adhere to NPO restrictions for 4-8 hours prior to the procedure. Many clients receive medications such as benzodiazepines to help them relax and decrease their anxiety before the procedure.

During the procedure, clients are carefully monitored with continuous vital signs monitoring and provided supplemental oxygen. Peripheral IV access is also maintained to provide medications as needed to support client comfort and promote hemodynamic stability. Following bronchoscopy, clients should be carefully observed to ensure their gag reflex has returned prior to consuming fluids or food.^[49],[50]

See Figure 6.13^[51] for an image of a bronchoscopy procedure.

Thoracentesis

Thoracentesis is a medical procedure performed to remove fluid or air from the pleural space, which is the space between the lung and the chest wall. It is done to diagnose and treat various conditions, including pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid), pneumothorax (accumulation of air), or to obtain a sample for diagnostic purposes. Thoracentesis can help diagnose the underlying cause of pleural effusion, such as infection, cancer, or heart failure. It can also assist in identifying the type of fluid present. In cases of large pleural effusions or tension pneumothorax, thoracentesis can help relieve symptoms and improve respiratory function.^[52] See Figure 6.14^[53] for an illustration of a thoracentesis.

During a thoracentesis, the client is positioned sitting on the edge of the bed or lying on the unaffected side. The skin over the puncture site is cleaned and sterilized. A local anesthetic is injected into the skin and deeper tissues to numb the area where the needle will be inserted. A needle is inserted through the back and into the pleural space under ultrasound guidance or using physical landmarks. Using a syringe or vacuum bottle, the health care provider withdraws the fluid or air from the pleural space. The collected fluid or air is sent to the laboratory for analysis, including cell counts, chemistry, and microbiology to determine the cause.^[54]

After the procedure, the client is closely monitored for any signs of complications, such as bleeding, infection, or pneumothorax. A chest X-ray is often performed to ensure that the lung has re-expanded properly and there are no complications, such as a pneumothorax. In some cases, if large volumes of fluid need to be drained or there is a risk of recurrence, a chest tube may be placed to allow continuous drainage.^[55]

Complications of thoracentesis can include bleeding, infection, pneumothorax, and damage to surrounding structures. These risks are minimized by using ultrasound guidance and taking appropriate precautions during the procedure.^[56]

See the following box for client preparation and additional information about the thoracentesis procedure.

Thoracentesis procedures are considered relatively safe, but there are potential complications. Complications may include a reaccumulation of fluid, subcutaneous emphysema, infection, or tension pneumothorax. If pleural fluid reaccumulates in the pleural space, a drain might be required. Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air leaks from the pleural space into subcutaneous tissue, resulting in crepitus and swelling. Subcutaneous emphysema typically resolves on its own. Tension pneumothorax occurs when pressure builds within the pleural space and compresses the lung. If a tension pneumothorax occurs, the heart and mediastinal structures are shifted toward the opposite of the chest, resulting in respiratory and cardiovascular compromise. Tension pneumothorax can often develop rapidly and result in severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, cyanosis, and decreased breath sounds. Immediate intervention is required and involves the insertion of a large bore needle or chest tube on the affected side of the chest to release the trapped air and decompress the pleural space.^[59],[60]

General Nursing Interventions Related to Respiratory Alterations

This section will provide an overview of common nursing interventions that may be implemented for a variety of respiratory alterations.

Dyspnea and Hypoxia

No matter the cause, respiratory alterations can cause dyspnea, hypoxia, or hypercapnia. Hypoxia and/or hypercapnia are medical emergencies and should be treated promptly by calling for assistance as indicated by agency policy.

Failure to initiate oxygen therapy for hypoxia can result in serious harm or death of the client. Although oxygen is considered a medication that requires a prescription, oxygen therapy may be initiated without a physician’s order in emergency situations as part of the nurse’s response to the “ABCs,” a common abbreviation for airway, breathing, and circulation. Most agencies have a protocol in place that allows nurses to apply oxygen in emergency situations and obtain the necessary order at a later time.

In addition to administering oxygen therapy, there are several general interventions a nurse can implement to immediately assist a client with dyspnea and possible hypoxia as outlined in Table 6.3b.

Table 6.3b. General Nursing Interventions to Manage Dyspnea and Hypoxia

Enhanced Breathing and Coughing Techniques

In addition to oxygen therapy and general interventions listed in Table 6.3b to address dyspnea, there are several techniques a nurse can teach a client to enhance their breathing and coughing. These techniques include pursed-lip breathing, incentive spirometry, coughing and deep breathing, and the huffing technique. Additionally, vibratory positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy can be incorporated in collaboration with a respiratory therapist.

Pursed-lip Breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a technique that decreases dyspnea by teaching people to control their oxygenation and ventilation. See Figure 6.15^[61] for an illustration of pursed-lip breathing. The technique teaches a person to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth at a slow, controlled flow. This type of exhalation gives the person a puckered or pursed-lip appearance. By prolonging the expiratory phase of respiration, a small amount of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is created in the airways that helps to keep them open so that more air can be exhaled. This subsequently reduces air trapping that commonly occurs in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pursed-lip breathing relieves the feeling of shortness of breath, decreases the work of breathing, and improves gas exchange. People also regain a sense of control over their breathing while simultaneously increasing their relaxation.^[62]

Diaphragmatic Breathing

When breathing normally, individuals typically don’t use their full lung capacity. Diaphragmatic breathing, also called abdominal breathing, encourages them to consciously use their diaphragm to take deep breaths. This promotes lung efficiency by using the lungs at 100% capacity.^[63]

When teaching the diaphragmatic breathing technique, it may be easier for the client to follow your instructions lying down^[64]:

• Lie on your back on a flat surface or in bed, with your knees bent and your head supported. You can use a pillow under your knees to support your legs.
• Place one hand on your upper chest and the other just below your rib cage. This will allow you to feel your diaphragm move as you breathe.
• Breathe in slowly through your nose so that your stomach moves out, causing your hand to rise. The hand on your chest should remain as still as possible.
• Tighten your stomach muscles, so that your stomach moves in, causing your hand to lower as you exhale through pursed lips (see “Pursed-lip Breathing” section above). The hand on your upper chest should remain as still as possible.

When first learning diaphragmatic breathing, clients should be encouraged to complete this exercise for five to 10 minutes about three to four times per day and then gradually increase the amount of time spent doing this exercise.^[65]

Incentive Spirometry

An incentive spirometer is a medical device commonly prescribed after surgery to expand the lungs, reduce the buildup of fluid in the lungs, and prevent pneumonia. See Figure 6.16^[66] for an image of a client using an incentive spirometer. While sitting upright, if possible, the client should place the mouthpiece in their mouth and create a tight seal with their lips around it. They should breathe in slowly and as deeply as possible through the tubing with the goal of raising the piston to their prescribed level. The resistance indicator on the right side should be monitored to ensure they are not breathing in too quickly. The client should attempt to hold their breath for as long as possible (at least five seconds) and then exhale and rest for a few seconds. Coughing is expected. Encourage the client to expel the mucus and not swallow it. This technique should be repeated by the client ten times every hour while awake.^[67] The nurse may delegate this intervention to unlicensed assistive personnel, but the frequency in which it is completed and the volume achieved should be documented and monitored by the nurse.

Coughing and Deep Breathing

Coughing and deep breathing is a breathing technique similar to incentive spirometry but no device is required. The client is encouraged to take deep, slow breaths and then exhale slowly. After each set of breaths (typically three to five), the client should cough. This technique is repeated three to five times every hour. The client may be encouraged to splint the chest with a pillow or folded blanket to help facilitate deep breathing and coughing.

Huffing Technique

The huffing technique is helpful to teach clients who have difficulty coughing. Teach the client to inhale with a medium-sized breath and then make a sound like “Ha” to push the air out quickly with the mouth slightly open.

Vibratory PEP Therapy

Vibratory positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy uses handheld devices such as flutter valves or Acapella devices for clients who need assistance in clearing mucus from their airways. These devices require a prescription and are used in collaboration with a respiratory therapist or advanced health care provider. To use vibratory PEP therapy, the client should sit up, take a deep breath, and blow into the device. A flutter valve within the device creates vibrations that help break up the mucus so the client can cough and spit it out. Additionally, a small amount of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is created in the airways that helps to keep them open so that more air can be exhaled. See Figure 6.17^[68]for an image of PEP therapy.

Routine Nursing Interventions Related to Respiratory Management

The Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) is a standardized classification of nurse-initiated and physician-initiated nursing treatments. There are several NIC classifications of nursing interventions that apply across multiple respiratory disorders such as “Respiratory Monitoring” and “Oxygen Therapy.” Read more about these categories of interventions in the following boxes.