Question

Which of the following does the nurse expect as an outcome of pursed lip breathing for patients with COPD?

a) Increased oxygen saturation
b) Decreased respiratory rate
c) Increased tidal volume
d) Decreased use of accessory muscles

Answer 1

Pursed lip breathing in COPD patients is expected to decrease the respiratory rate and reduce the use of accessory muscles, making breathing more efficient. The correct options are B and D.

Step-by-step explanation:

The technique of pursed lip breathing is commonly used to help manage the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). When a patient with COPD practices pursed lip breathing, the expected outcomes can include a decreased respiratory rate, which allows for more time for the lungs to expel air and helps prevent the bronchioles from collapsing.

Additionally, it leads to a more effective release of air and a reduction of the work of breathing, since it can help decrease the use of accessory muscles that are often overtaxed in patients with COPD.