Methods to deal with Dyspnea

Question 1

Prevention

Answer 1

• Using controlled breathing and pacing activities are perferable for relief

Question 2

Controlled Breathing

Answer 2

(Prevention)

• Use of diaphragmatic or abdominal breathing
• if pt do not spontaneously adopt a breathing pattern that requires less work, they may benefit from instruction, but not in the grip of acute breathlessness

Question 3

Pacing

Answer 3

(Prevention)

- Performance of functional activities within the limits of breathing capacity

Question 4

Controlled, Pursed lips Breathing

Answer 4

• to control acute dyspnea

Question 5

Controlled Technique

Answer 5

• Relaxed, forward bent posture
• Use of bronchodilators
• Gain control of breathing by use of pursed lip breathing with emphasis on expiratory phase
• Use diaphragm and avoid use of accessory mm’s for inspiration
• Remain in this posture until dyspnea is resloved

Question 6

Chest Mobilization Ex’s

Answer 6

• combine active movements of the trunk or extremities with deep breathing to maintain or improve mobility of chest wall, trunk, shoulders and to reinforce or emphasize depth of inspiration or controlled expiration
  ie: Lateral rotation with inspiration/expiration