breathing
General
Sn instructed patient on pursed lip breathing. Pursed lip breathing is one of the simplest ways to control shortness of breath. It provides a quick and easy way to slow your pace of breathing, making each breath more effective. What does pursed lip breathing do? Pursed lip breathing: Improves ventilation, releases trapped air in the lungs, keeps the airways open longer and decreases the work of breathing, prolongs exhalation to slow the breathing rate, improves breathing patterns by moving old air out of the lungs and allowing for new air to enter the lungs, relieves shortness of breath, causes general relaxation. When should I use this technique? Use this technique during the difficult part of any activity, such as bending, lifting or stair climbing. Practice this technique 4 - 5 times a day at first so you can get the correct breathing pattern. Pursed lip breathing technique: Relax your neck and shoulder muscles, breathe in ( inhale ) slowly through your nose for two counts, keeping your mouth closed. Don't take a deep breath; a normal breath will do. It may help to count to yourself: inhale, one, two. Pucker or "purse" your lips as if you were going to whistle or gently flicker the flame of a candle. Breathe out ( exhale ) slowly and gently through your pursed lips while counting to four. It may help to count to yourself: exhale, one, two, three, four.
SN to educate patient on CPAP machine as follows: CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. The machines help people with sleep apnea breathe more easily and regularly every night while they are sleeping. A CPAP machine increases the air pressure in your throat to prevent your airway from collapsing when you inhale. Patient admits that most nights he goes to bed with Cpap, but finds mask on floor after waking in AM. SN to advise patient of importance of wearing Cpap as follows: The CPAP breathing machine is used by people with chronic obstructive sleep apnea, a disorder which causes airways to close up during sleep. People with obstructive sleep apnea stop breathing while sleeping. When breathing stops the individual is suddenly jolted awake, gasping for air. Patient to deny any sleep issues lately. People with sleep apnea often do not remember these episodes, but instead experience chronic fatigue that they have no explanation for. Over time, sleep apnea can increase the risk of hypertension, heart failure, heart attack, and stroke. Patient verbalized understanding of teaching today. SN to continue to monitor.
Instructed in deep breathing exercises to promote lung expansion and prevent pulmonary congestion.
SN instructed patient on non pharmacological pain management like massage, a lot of people find relief from gentle massage. Several studies have found that massage is effective in relieving pain and other symptoms for people with serious illness. Relaxation techniques like guided imagery, breathing techniques, and gentle movement like rom exercises. Relaxation techniques are often very effective, particularly when a patient / caregiver is feeling anxious. Physical therapy if a person has been active before and is now confined to bed, even just moving the hands and feet a little bit can help. Pet therapy if you have bouts of pain that last 5, 10, or 15 minutes, trying to find something pleasant like petting an animal soft fur to distract and relax yourself can be helpful. Gel packs, these are simple packs that can be warmed or chilled and used to ease localized pain.
SN educated patient on some ways to cope with stress and anxiety. explained to the patient that anxiety can be a normal part of life when faced with stressors such as changes in relationships, presenting in front of a crowd, or making decisions. There is no one right answer to eliminate anxiety. It is important to find healthy coping skills that will work for you. Consult with your primary care physician when anxiety becomes persistent or unmanageable. SN Instructed patient about some coping skills to consider when struggling with anxiety include: Reaching out to support system (i.e. family/friends, counselors, psychiatrists, or support groups). Deep breathing Meditation, Yoga, Avoiding caffeinated beverages, Healthy diet, and Calming music. Patient Verbalized fair understanding of anxiety teaching.
Instructed patient to seek immediate medical care if any of the following situations occur besides vomiting: blood present in the vomit, severe headache, severe abdominal pain, fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, diarrhea or rapid breathing or pulse.
SN instructed patient ways to clear nasal sinuses and to moisturize your sinuses by draping a towel over your head as you breathe in the vapor from a bowl of medium-hot water. Keep the vapor directed toward your face. Or take a hot shower, breathing in the warm, moist air to help ease pain and help mucus drain. Rinse out your nasal passages. Use a specially designed squeeze bottle, saline canister.
SN instructed patient and caregiver to report any signs/symptoms such as : fever, cough, headache, trouble breathing; in order to prevent spread COVID-19. They both verbalized understanding.
SN advised the patient that if you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly as this may be due to a respiratory infection or other serious condition. Call in advance and tell your provider of any recent travel or contact with travelers. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also help to prevent possible spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.
SN instructed patient and caregiver to report any signs or symptoms such as : fever, cough, headache, trouble breathing, muscle or body aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, in order to prevent spread COVID-19.