Question

A nurse is instructing a client who has COPD about using the orthopneic position to relieve shortness of breath. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

1) Lie on your back with your head and shoulders supported by a pillow.
2) Have your head turned to the side while you lie on your stomach.
3) Have a table beside your bed so you can sit on the bedside and rest your arms on the table.
4) Lie on your side with your top arm resting on the bed and your weight on your hip.

Answer 1

For COPD patients, the orthopneic position, which involves sitting and leaning forward with arms rested on a table, helps relieve shortness of breath, the nurse should suggest option 3: "Have a table beside your bed so you can sit on the bedside and rest your arms on the table."

Step-by-step explanation:

When instructing a client who has Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) on how to use the orthopneic position to relieve shortness of breath, the nurse should suggest option 3: "Have a table beside your bed so you can sit on the bedside and rest your arms on the table." This position allows the client to lean forward and rest, which can help to open the airways and ease breathing. It's important to note that lying on the back could increase the risk of airway obstruction and is not recommended for patients with breathing difficulties.