Question

The nurse is teaching a 10 -year-old client with cystic fibrosis how to do purselipped breathing. Which activity would be effective in helping the client learn the technique? A. Using an incentive spirometer three times a day B. Blowing a ping pong ball across a table C. Doing sit-ups to strengthen abdominal muscles D. Blowing out a lit candle

Short answer

Answer: Blowing a ping pong ball across a table.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding pursed-lip breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a technique used to help individuals with respiratory issues, such as cystic fibrosis, to control their breathing and improve lung function. In this technique, the individual inhales through the nose and exhales slowly through pursed lips, which creates a back pressure to keep the airways open.

Evaluate Each Option

A. Using an incentive spirometer three times a day: This device measures the flow of air inhaled and exhaled. It helps improve lung function but does not directly teach pursed-lip breathing. B. Blowing a ping pong ball across a table: This activity promotes controlled exhalation, which is a key element of pursed-lip breathing. The child needs to maintain a steady flow of breath to keep the ball moving across the table. C. Doing sit-ups to strengthen abdominal muscles: Although strong abdominal muscles can support better breathing, this option does not directly teach the pursed-lip breathing technique. D. Blowing out a lit candle: Blowing out a candle requires a forceful exhalation, which is not in line with the controlled, slow exhalation of pursed-lip breathing.

Choose the correct option

Based on the evaluation of each option, the correct activity that would help the client learn pursed-lip breathing is: B. Blowing a ping pong ball across a table

Key concepts

Cystic Fibrosis Management

Cystic fibrosis is a complex genetic condition that demands consistent and comprehensive management strategies. One crucial aspect of managing this condition is respiratory care, which aims at reducing pulmonary complications and enhancing the patient's quality of life. Pursed-lip breathing is an effective technique that helps in slowing down the exhalation process, promoting a better gaseous exchange, which can be beneficial for cystic fibrosis patients.

Effective cystic fibrosis management encompasses a multidimensional approach, including physiotherapy, nutritional support, and the use of medications such as mucolytics and antibiotics. For respiratory management specifically, techniques like chest physiotherapy to dislodge mucus from the airway walls, and exercises to improve breathing efficiency are employed.

Learning and practicing the pursed-lip breathing technique can aid in preventing airway collapse, improving ventilation, and reducing dyspnea. This simple yet impactful technique empowers patients to manage breathlessness and improve their ability to engage in daily activities.

Respiratory Therapy Education

The educational aspect of respiratory therapy is critical for ensuring patients with chronic respiratory diseases like cystic fibrosis can actively participate in their own care. Knowing how to perform techniques such as pursed-lip breathing allows for better control over breathing patterns, which is vital for these patients.

Respiratory therapy education focuses on imparting knowledge about the mechanics of breathing, how to recognize abnormal respiratory signs, and the correct use of therapeutic techniques and devices. For instance, spirometry and peak flow measurements are tools that respiratory therapists teach patients to track lung function.

To enhance understanding, instructors often use interactive and practical teaching methods—like simulating real-life scenarios or using gamification, such as blowing a ping pong ball across a table to master pursed-lip breathing. These methods are designed to make the learning process engaging and memorable.

Nursing Instruction Methods

Nursing instruction methods are essential in teaching and reinforcing essential skills to both patients and nursing students. Nurses utilize a variety of instructional methods tailored to the patient's age, cognitive level, and learning preferences. Innovative and interactive approaches, such as demonstration, return-demonstration, and hands-on practice, are favored for their effectiveness.

For instance, teaching a child with cystic fibrosis the pursed-lip breathing technique may involve creating a playful experience by incorporating games. As seen in the exercise solution, asking the child to blow a ping pong ball across a table not only educates but also engages the child in a fun activity. This makes the learning process enjoyable and increases the likelihood of the child practicing the technique regularly.

By using patient-centered instruction methods, nurses can significantly improve skill retention, promote self-care, and enhance overall treatment outcomes.