Question

A patient complains of pain due to shortness of breath. What is the nurse's best action to alleviate the patient's discomfort?

A. Assist patient into a side-lying position.
B. Encourage an upright, forward-leaning position.
C. Apply heating pad to anterior chest.
D. Administer narcotics intravenously.

Answer 1

The nurse's best action to alleviate the patient's shortness of breath is to encourage an upright, forward-leaning position.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best action to alleviate the patient's shortness of breath is B. Encourage an upright, forward-leaning position. This position helps optimize lung expansion and allows for better oxygenation. It also helps relieve pressure on the diaphragm, making it easier for the patient to breathe. Sitting upright with the upper body slightly forward can also help relieve any potential lung congestion or fluid buildup.

Answer 2

In a scenario where a patient complains of pain due to shortness of breath, the nurse's best action to alleviate the patient's discomfort is:
B. Encourage an upright, forward-leaning position.

Step-by-step explanation:

Encouraging an upright, forward-leaning position can help improve lung expansion and make breathing easier for the patient. This position maximizes the use of respiratory muscles, allowing for better ventilation. It can be particularly helpful for patients experiencing respiratory distress, as it helps optimize lung function and alleviate the sensation of breathlessness.

This position is often recommended for patients with conditions such as dyspnea (shortness of breath) or respiratory distress associated with various medical conditions, including cardiac and pulmonary issues. It is essential to assess the patient's comfort and adjust the position based on their needs while closely monitoring their respiratory status.

Therefore, the correct option is: B. Encourage an upright, forward-leaning position.