Vital signs - respiration

Question 1

external respiration definition

Answer 1

how the body gains oxygen by inhaling and excretes carbon dioxide by exhaling

Question 2

what are the normal values?

Answer 2

12-20 bpm

Question 3

when do we do a respiration assessment?

Answer 3

baseline rate, following surgery, as part of a full vital sign assessment

Question 4

factors affecting respiratory rate

Answer 4

labour, emotions, exercise, infection, anaemia, haemorrhage

Question 5

why do we do a respiration assessment?

Answer 5

rate, depth, cough, sounds, colouring of patient (cyanosis, flushing, pallor), sputum production, pain on breathing

Question 6

describe the procedure for the respiration assessment

Answer 6

1. take wrist to pretend you are checking the pulse
2. watch the chest rising in and out
3. count for 1 minute
4. explain findings and document