Fundamentals of Nursing Q 326

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Which term does the nurse document to best describe a client experiencing shortness of breath while lying down who must assume an upright or sitting position to breathe more comfortably and effectively?

  

     A. Dyspnea

     B. Hyperpnea

     C. Orthopnea

     D. Apnea

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Orthopnea

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Respiratory difficulty related to a reclining position without other physical alterations is defined as orthopnea. Orthopnea is the sensation of breathlessness in the recumbent position, relieved by sitting or standing. Orthopnea is caused by pulmonary congestion during recumbency. In the horizontal position there is redistribution of blood volume from the lower extremities and splanchnic beds to the lungs.

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Option A: Dyspnea is the medical term for shortness of breath, sometimes described as “air hunger.” It is an uncomfortable feeling. Shortness of breath can range from mild and temporary to serious and long-lasting. It is sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat dyspnea because there can be many different causes.

Option B: Hyperpnea is breathing more deeply and sometimes faster than usual. It’s normal during exercise or exertion. Hyperpnea is breathing deeply, a normal response to exertion requiring more oxygen. This is when you’re breathing in more air but not necessarily breathing faster. It can happen during exercise or because of a medical condition that makes it harder for your body to get oxygen, like heart failure or sepsis (a serious overreaction by your immune system).

Option D: Apnea is breathing that stops briefly during sleep. Oxygen to the brain is decreased. It requires treatment. Apnea is the medical term used to describe slowed or stopped breathing. Apnea can affect people of all ages, and the cause depends on the type of apnea one has. Apnea usually occurs while sleeping. For this reason, it’s often called sleep apnea.

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