Asked by Lovereen Jaswal on Apr 30, 2024
Verified
The nurse is assessing the patient's respirations. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
A) Inform the patient that she is counting respirations.
B) Do not touch the patient until completed.
C) Obtain without the patient knowing.
D) Estimate respirations.
Counting Respirations
The act of measuring the number of breaths taken by a person within a specified period of time.
Patient Knowing
The comprehension or understanding that a patient has regarding their health, treatment options, and the implications of those treatments on their life.
- Understand the appropriate method to assess a patient's respirations.
Verified Answer
JP
Jewel PerryMay 05, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Do not let a patient know that you are assessing respirations. A patient aware of the assessment can alter the rate and depth of breathing. Assess respirations immediately after measuring pulse rate, with your hand still on the patient's wrist as it rests over the chest or abdomen. Respirations are the easiest of all vital signs to assess, but they are often the most haphazardly measured. Do not estimate respirations.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the appropriate method to assess a patient's respirations.