The nurse is assessing the client's respiratory system. Which method will result in the most accurate assessment of the client's respiratory rate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Counting respirations in an unobtrusive manner without informing the client is the best method to obtain an accurate assessment of the client's respiratory rate. This method prevents altering the client's breathing pattern or falsely elevating respiratory rate due to awareness or anxiety. Placing a hand on the client's chest may also alter the breathing pattern, and counting only audible respirations may not capture any shallow breathing. Informing the client that the nurse is counting respirations may cause the client to alter their breathing pattern consciously or unconsciously.

The Nurse Is Assessing the Client's Respiratory System