Breathing deterioration is a serious nursing diagnosis that can occur in a variety of different medical conditions. It refers to a decline in the individual’s ability to breathe properly and can lead to serious complications if not properly addressed. In this blog post, we will explore the NANDA nursing diagnosis of “Breathing Deterioration” and learn about its definition, characteristics, related factors, and suggested interventions.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
The NANDA nursing diagnosis of “Breathing Deterioration” is defined as “a decline in the ability to breathe properly, which can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels in the body.” This diagnosis can be made when an individual is experiencing difficulty breathing, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, or labored breathing.
Defining Characteristics
Subjective
- Reports shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Expresses feelings of anxiety or panic related to breathing
- Reports chest pain or discomfort
Objective
- Observed use of accessory muscles during breathing
- Observed wheezing or crackles during breathing
- Observed cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes)
- Abnormal breathing rate or pattern
Related Factors
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A lung disease that makes it hard to breathe
- Asthma: A chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways
- Pneumonia: An infection in the lungs that causes inflammation and fluid buildup
- Chest injury or trauma
- Anemia: A condition in which there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body
Risk Population
- Individuals with chronic lung conditions such as COPD or asthma
- Individuals with a history of chest injury or trauma
- Elderly individuals or those with weakened immune systems
- Individuals living in areas with poor air quality
Associated Problems
- Decreased oxygen levels in the body (hypoxia) which can lead to organ damage or failure
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure due to the body’s compensatory response to decreased oxygen levels
- Fatigue and weakness
- Anxiety and fear related to difficulty breathing
Suggestions of Use
- Assess the individual’s breathing patterns and oxygen levels
- Administer oxygen therapy as needed to improve oxygen levels in the body
- Provide bronchodilators and other medications as prescribed to improve breathing
- Encourage the individual to use breathing techniques and exercises to improve lung function
- Monitor the individual’s response to treatment and adjust as needed
Suggested alternative NANDA diagnoses
- Impaired Gas Exchange: This diagnosis can be used when there is a problem with the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body, which can lead to breathing deterioration
- Acute Respiratory Distress: This diagnosis can be used when there is a sudden and severe decline in the individual’s ability to breathe properly
- Ineffective Breathing Pattern: This diagnosis can be used when there is an abnormal breathing pattern that is leading to difficulty breathing
Usage tips
- Be aware of any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to breathing deterioration
- Monitor the individual’s oxygen levels regularly and administer oxygen therapy as needed
- Encourage the individual to use breathing techniques and exercises to improve lung function
- Educate the individual and their family on the importance of adhering to treatment plans to prevent deterioration of breathing
NOC Results
- Gas Exchange: The ability of the individual to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide at the cellular level
- Respiration: The ability of the individual to breathe properly and maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body
- Comfort: The individual’s level of comfort and relief from symptoms related to breathing deterioration
- Breathing Pattern: The individual’s ability to maintain a normal and effective breathing pattern
NIC Interventions
- Oxygen Therapy: Administering oxygen to improve oxygen levels in the body
- Medication Management: Administering bronchodilators and other medications as prescribed to improve breathing
- Breathing Techniques and Exercises: Teaching the individual techniques and exercises to improve lung function
- Patient and Family Education: Educating the individual and their family on the importance of adhering to treatment plans and preventing deterioration of breathing
Conclusion
Breathing deterioration is a serious nursing diagnosis that can lead to serious complications if not properly addressed. As a nurse, it is important to be able to recognize the signs of breathing deterioration and take steps to address it. By using the NANDA nursing diagnosis of “Breathing Deterioration,” you can provide appropriate interventions and support to help your patients improve their ability to breathe properly and maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body.
FAQ
What causes Breathing Deterioration?
Breathing deterioration can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic lung conditions such as COPD or asthma, chest injury or trauma, anemia, and living in areas with poor air quality.
How can Breathing Deterioration be treated?
Breathing deterioration can be treated through a variety of interventions, including oxygen therapy, medication management, breathing techniques and exercises, and patient and family education. It is important to address breathing deterioration as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Why is it important for nurses to be able to recognize and address Breathing Deterioration?
As a nurse, it is important to be able to recognize and address Breathing Deterioration because it can have a significant impact on an individual’s physical, emotional and social well-being. By providing appropriate interventions and support, you can help your patients improve their ability to breathe properly, increase their level of comfort and relief from symptoms, and prevent serious complications.