Self- management

Question 1

All ACBT components

Answer 1

• Teach all components and explain when to use each part.
• Remind about dangers of too much FET or TE
• Do for 10 minutes or until chest clear if full cycle and remember BC in-between
• you can do part of it for your symptoms tho

Question 2

Pursed lipped breathing

Answer 2

Decreased shortness of breath
- inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through pursed lips as if you are blowing out a candle.
- It works by creating a positive back pressure as you exhale and stops the airways fro collapsing
- it also helps to slow down the rate of breathing
- allowing the body to take in more oxygen with each breath
- in COPD it can help clear trapped air and reduce WOB

Use it when feeling exerted, breathless or anxious. Stop if feeling ligh headed or increased SOB
This technique can reduce stress, muscle fatigue, improve SATS and allow the patient to continue ADLs with a way of managing their breathlessness

Question 3

Blow as you go

Answer 3

A breathing technique to exercising or doing a task you know makes you SOB.
It can be used in adjunct to pursed lip breathing
(breathing out on effort)
- take a nice breath in before the effortful task (bending, stairs, walking)
- while you complete the movement forcefully breath out (pursed lipped is good here)

It is important to pace yourself during activities and not cause too much breathlessness or exhaustion.

Question 4

HEP

Answer 4

Regular exercise can improve lung volume and function, reduce shortness of breath with time and is good for general health to avoid secondary complications

• chair based
• sitting/ standing
  (Super 6)
• prescribe walking
• try to attend PR class after 6 weeks etc
• mobilise everyday and avoid bed rest

Question 5

Positioning

Answer 5

• high sitting
• side lying
• lean against wall when out for walk and feel breathless (then work on breathing control - breath a rectangle)

Question 6

Lifestyle changes

Answer 6

• smoking cessation is willing
• avoiding irritant (work place allergen)
• sedentary life style (refer to PR or groups to increase activity and socialising)
• if anything changes or medication less effective please see GP or pharmasist