Question

While caring for a critically ill child, the nurse observes that respirations are gradually increasing in rate and depth, with periods of apnea. What pattern of respiration will the nurse document?

a.Dyspnea
b.Tachypnea
c.Cheyne-Stokes respirations
d.Seesaw (paradoxic) respirations

Answer 1

The nurse will document the pattern of respiration as Cheyne-Stokes respirations, which is characterized by a gradual increase in rate and depth followed by periods of apnea.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse will document the pattern of respiration as Cheyne-Stokes respirations.

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a gradual increase in rate and depth of respirations, followed by a period of apnea where no breathing occurs. This pattern repeats in a regular cycle.

It is important for the nurse to monitor and document this pattern of respiration as it can indicate a critical condition in the child and may require medical intervention.