Nursing Interventions for Atelectasis
September 6, 2010 | In: Nursing Interventions
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Nursing Interventions: Atelectasis
- Encourage the patient to perform coughing and deep-breathing exercises every 1 to 2 hours.
- Help the patient use an incentive spirometer to encourage deep breathing.
- Gently reposition the patient often and help him walk as soon as possible.
- Administer adequate analgesics to control pain.
- Humidify inspired air and encourage adequate fluid intake to mobilize secretions.
- Use postural drainage and chest percussion to remove secretions.
- Provide suctioning as needed for patients who are intubated or unable to clear their own secretions.
- Administer sedatives with care because these medications depress respirations and cough reflex.
- Offer ample reassurance and emotional support because the patient’s limited breathing capacity may frighten him.
- Assess breath sounds and respiratory status frequently. Report any changes immediately.
- Evaluate the patient’s ability to perform bronchial hygiene.
- Monitor pulse oximetry readings and ABG values for evidence of hypoxia.
- Demonstrate comfort measures to promote relaxation and conserve energy.