Measurement of the no. of breaths per minute, as well as the characteristics of the breaths.
Objectives:
– To determine the number of breaths per minute and the quality of respiratory movements. – To detect alterations in the rhythm of respiration.
Equipment:
– Stethoscope. – Watch with second hand. – Black pen.
Material:
– Nursing records.
Procedure:
– Perform hand washing. – Check the correct functioning of the stethoscope. – Preserve the patient’s privacy. – Inform the patient. – Request the collaboration of the patient and family. – Place the patient in a comfortable and correct position.
– Check that no previous physical or emotional exercise has been performed. If so, let the patient rest for 5-10 minutes before measuring. – Observe and count the patient’s chest and abdominal elevations for 1 min. If chest movements cannot be observed, place the hand on the chest or abdomen and count the frequency. – Observe the regularity, type and characteristics of the breaths. – Record in nursing documentation with black pen: no. breaths, date and time and characteristics of breaths.
Observations:
– To auscultate breath sounds place the stethoscope at various locations on the chest and ask the patient to perform the respiratory movements. Characteristics to be assessed: Respiratory frequency: number of breaths per minute. 2. Normal values (eupnea):
AGE RESPIRATIONS PER MINUTE Newborn 30-80 Younger infant 20-40 Older infant 20-30 Children 2 to 4 years 20-30 Children 6-8 years 20-25 Adult 15-20
2. Depth. 3. Rate. 4. Character: wheezing, noises, etc. – A lower than normal respiratory rate is called bradypnea and higher than normal tachypnea.
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