Question

what are the nursing interventions for the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide in a patient's body?

Answer 1

Ans) Nursing interventions with rationale for the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide in a patient's body:

• Position patient with head of bed elevated, in a semi-Fowler’sposition (head of bed at 45 degrees when supine) as tolerated- Upright position or semi-Fowler’s position allows increased thoracic capacity, full descent of diaphragm, and increased lung expansion preventing the abdominal contents from crowding.

• Encourage or assist with ambulation as per physician’s order- Ambulation facilitates lung expansion, secretion clearance, and stimulates deep breathing.

• If patient is acutely dyspneic, consider having patient lean forward over a bedside table, if tolerated- Leaning forward can help decrease dyspnea, possibly because gastric pressure allows better contraction of the diaphragm.

• Maintain an oxygen administration device as ordered, attempting to maintain oxygen saturation at 90% or greater- Supplemental oxygen may be required to maintain PaO2  at an acceptable level.

• Administer humidified oxygen through appropriate device (e.g., nasal cannula or face mask per physician’s order)- A patient with chronic lung disease may need a hypoxic drive to breathe and may hypoventilate during oxygen therapy.

• Help patient deep breathe and perform controlled coughing- This technique can help increase sputum clearance and decrease cough spasms. Controlled coughing uses the diaphragmatic muscles, making the cough more forceful and effective.

• Provide reassurance and reduce anxiety- Anxiety increases dyspnea, respiratory rate, and work of breathing.

• Administer medications as prescribed- The type depends on the etiological factors of the problem.

• Assess the home environment for irritants that impair gas exchange- Irritants in the environment decrease the patient’s effectiveness in accessing oxygen during breathing.

• Instruct family in complications of disease and importance of maintaining medical regimen, including when to call physician- Knowledge of the family about the disease is very important to prevent further complications.

• Support family of patient with chronic illness- Severely compromised respiratory functioning causes fear and anxiety in patients and their families. Reassurance from the nurse can be helpful.