CHECKING AND RECORDING OF RESPIRATION

REQUIREMENTS #

1. Pen
2. Observation chart
3. Breast watch or appropriate timer

STEPS #

1. Establish rapport with patient (Refer to steps)
2. Explain procedure to patient (Refer to steps)
3. Assist patient into an appropriate resting position
4. Observe patient respiration without his/her awareness
5. Observe the position in which patient breath better and skin colour
6. Note the rise and fall of patient chest during inspiration and expiration, the rise and fall counts as one cycle
7. With the aid of an appropriate timer count for a full minute
8. Note the depth rhythm and any difficulty in breathing
9. Record the findings on the observational chart (manual/electronic)
10. Perform hand hygiene
11. Assist patient to return to a desirable position
12. Discuss findings with patient and report any abnormalities detected appropriate officer