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Dyspnea: a case for nursing diagnosis status
Summary
Dyspnea, or difficult breathing, is a common symptom in heart and lung conditions. This review suggests dyspnea be recognized as a nursing diagnosis, outlining its causes, signs, and interventions for relief.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Respiratory Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Dyspnea is a prevalent and distressing symptom in patients with cardiopulmonary disorders.
- Understanding the multifaceted nature of dyspnea is crucial for effective patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on dyspnea.
- To propose dyspnea as a formal nursing diagnosis.
- To categorize the etiologies and defining characteristics of dyspnea.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research on dyspnea.
- Categorization of dyspnea etiologies into neurosensory, neurochemical, cognitive, and affective mechanisms.
- Identification of subjective and objective defining characteristics.
Main Results:
- Dyspnea involves complex neurosensory, neurochemical, cognitive, and affective pathways.
- Subjective reports (shortness of breath, suffocation) and objective signs (increased accessory muscle use) define dyspnea.
- Nursing interventions focus on reducing respiratory afferent activity and managing the affective component.
Conclusions:
- Dyspnea warrants consideration as a nursing diagnosis due to its prevalence and impact.
- Further research is recommended for acutely ill patients and diverse medical conditions, expanding beyond obstructive lung disorders.