Respiration

Question 1

What is respiration?

Answer 1

Means by which the body gains oxygen and excretes carbon dioxide

Question 2

What is the normal rate of respiration for an adult?

Answer 2

According to NICE 12 - 20 breaths per minute

Question 4

Name the illnesses associated with respiration

Answer 4

Tachypnoea - increased rate >20
Bradypnoea - decreased rate <12
Dyspnoea - breathlessness and discomfort
Apnoea - temporary cessation of breathing
Orthopnoea - shortness of breath lying down
Hyperventilation - increased rate and depth

Question 5

Why would we measure respiration?

Answer 5

Assessment of rate, depth and associated signs
Determine a baseline
Monitor deviations
Evaluate response to treatment/medications

Question 6

When would we measure respiration?

Answer 6

Admission

Signs of illness

Question 7

Talk through the procedure for measuring respiration

Answer 7

Carry out while doing pulse because breathing can be altered if woman aware
Gain informed consent
Wash hands
Count chest wall movements in 60 seconds
Wash hands
Discuss findings
Document findings as per the NMC Code