Saunders Respiratory Practice

What observation indicates that a client is correctly performing pursed-lip breathing?

1. The client breathes in quickly through the nose.

2. The client breathes out slowly through the mouth.

3. The client holds their breath for five seconds.

4. The client emphasizes inhalation through the mouth.

The correct answer is: The client breathes out slowly through the mouth.

Pursed-lip breathing is a technique used to help improve ventilation, reduce shortness of breath, and promote relaxation. When a client is correctly performing this breathing technique, they will typically exhale slowly through pursed lips, which creates back pressure in the airways and helps to keep them open longer during exhalation. This slow exhalation encourages more effective elimination of carbon dioxide and can help the client feel more in control of their breathing. Breathing in quickly through the nose does not reflect the technique's principles, as pursed-lip breathing emphasizes controlled breaths rather than rapid inhalation. Holding the breath for five seconds is not a typical component of this technique, as the focus is more on extended exhalation rather than breath retention. Emphasizing inhalation through the mouth contradicts the underlying method of pursed-lip breathing, which specifically highlights the importance of prolonged and controlled exhalation to enhance airway patency. Therefore, slow exhalation through the mouth, as indicated by the correct observation, showcases the client's adherence to the essential aspects of pursed-lip breathing, which facilitates improved respiratory function and comfort.