A client is having episodes of hyperventilation related to her surgery that is scheduled tomorrow. Appropriate nursing actions to help control hyperventilating include:

The correct answer is C. Having the client hold her breath or breathe into a paper bag when hyperventilation episodes occur. (A) An adult diazepam dosage for treatment of anxiety is 2-10 mg PO 2-4 times daily. The order as written would place a client at risk for overdose. (B) A high room temperature could increase hyperventilating episodes by stimulating the respiratory system. (C) Breath holding…

Physiological Integrity: Basic Care and Comfort

Question

Options

AAdministering diazepam (Valium) 10-15 mg po q4h and q1h prn for hyperventilating episode
BKeeping the temperature in the client's room at a high level to reduce respiratory stimulation
CHaving the client hold her breath or breathe into a paper bag when hyperventilation episodes occur
DUsing distraction to help control the client's hyperventilation episodes

How the community answered

(15 responses)

A
7% (1)
C
93% (14)

Explanation

(A) An adult diazepam dosage for treatment of anxiety is 2-10 mg PO 2-4 times daily. The order as written would place a client at risk for overdose. (B) A high room temperature could increase hyperventilating episodes by stimulating the respiratory system. (C) Breath holding and breathing into a paper bag may be useful in controlling hyperventilation. Both measures increase CO2 retention. (D) Distraction will not prevent or control hyperventilation caused by anxiety or fear.

Topics

#hyperventilation management#CO2 rebreathing#paper bag technique#breathing intervention

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