Breathing techniques - breathing control

Question 1

Rationale behind breathing control

Answer 1

Used to prevent increase in airflow obstruction

Allow patients to rest between the more active and forced techniques of the
cycle e.g. TEE and FET

Allows control of breathing

Can be used on its own or after a more active component of ACBT

Question 2

Physiological effect of breathing control

Answer 2

Relaxes the airways and relieve the symptoms of wheezing and tightness which normally occur after coughing

Increase lung volume

Expels secretions

Reduces breathlessness

Question 3

What structures does this affect?

Answer 3

Lung airways

Question 4

How would you treat a patient using breathing control?

Answer 4

1. Introduce yourself
2. Explain purpose of the treatment and check contraindications
   3.Gain informed consent
3. Ensure environment is suitable and position patient appropriately using pillows and provide towel/blanket for comfort as required
4. Instruct patient to breathe gently and to try to feel more relaxed and calmer with each exhalation. Concentrate on allowing the abdominal wall to rise, gently not forcibly, under the physio’s hands. The patient on breathing out should feel his/her abdomen slowly sink back to a rest position. The patient can practise by resting both hands over the abdomen
   to feel the gentle movement. Emphasise gentle breathing with the minimum effort.
5. Monitor patient carefully throughout for any adverse reactions E.g. lightheadedness or dizziness and check they are comfortable
6. Re-assess patient and check for any adverse effects

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Patients unable to participate – although not a true contraindication, breathing exercises require an
element of patient participation and understanding

Inadequate pain control
Acute bronchospasm
Acute, unstable head, neck or spinal surgery
Acute medically unwell/instability

Are you feeling well in yourself?
No abnormal breathing recently?
Any head/neck/spinal surgery?

Question 6

How would you document this?

Answer 6

Date, Time, Patient name
Explanation of procedure & gaining informed consent
Description of breathing - deep shallow, expansion and retraction of throrax, forced?
Time completed for?
Adverse effects?
Sign