Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 16, 2026

Repeated Measurement of Respiratory Muscle Activity and Ventilation in Mouse Models of Neuromuscular Disease
Published on: April 17, 2017
A case study exploring the management of dyspnoea in motor neurone disease
Lisa Burkhill1, Teresa Marie Davies2
1BSc Nursing, Wrexham Glyndwr University School of Social and Life Sciences, UK.
Abstract:
Motor neurone disease affects around 5000 people in the UK at any given time. It is a progressive disease with a poor prognosis and carries a high symptom burden. Dyspnoea (breathlessness) is one of its most challenging yet common symptoms and occurs because of a weakening of the muscles that control breathing. This case study explores the management of a man diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the community. His advance decision to refuse treatment directive to avoid non-invasive ventilation during the day was managed through a combination of opioid medication, breath stacking, positioning and other strategies recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Individualised care planning and maintaining quality of life was key in his management.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Nursing Management
Assessment
COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....

