An appropriate method for assessing a client's respirations is for the nurse to:

Question

A. Place the bed flat
B. Remove all supplemental oxygen sources
C. Explain to the client that the respirations are being assessed
D. Relax and gently place the client's hand over the upper abdomen

Answer 1

D
D. Place client's arm in relaxed position across the abdomen or lower chest, or place nurse's hand directly over client's upper abdomen
A. Be sure client is in comfortable position, preferably sitting or lying with the head of the bed elevated 45 to 60 degrees. Sitting erect promotes full ventilatory movement. Position of discomfort may cause client to breathe more rapidly.
B. Documentation should include any supplemental oxygen that the client is receiving.
C. Inconspicuous assessment of respirations immediately after pulse assessment prevents client from consciously or unintentionally altering rate and depth of breathing.