Saunders Respiratory Practice

What intervention can help prevent respiratory complications in an older client on bed rest?

1. Changing the client's position every 2 hours

2. Limiting fluid intake

3. Encouraging long periods of rest

4. Using a heated blanket

The correct answer is: Changing the client's position every 2 hours

Changing the client's position every 2 hours is an effective intervention to help prevent respiratory complications in older clients on bed rest. This practice reduces the risk of stasis in the lungs, promotes better lung expansion, and enhances ventilation and oxygenation. Regular repositioning helps prevent atelectasis, where parts of the lung collapse due to insufficient air, and it encourages the mobilization of secretions, thus aiding in the prevention of pneumonia and other respiratory infections. In contrast, limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which can thicken secretions and make it more difficult to clear mucus from the respiratory tract, potentially increasing the risk of complications. Encouraging long periods of rest does not support the need for regular movement and activity, which are crucial in maintaining respiratory health. Using a heated blanket may provide comfort, but it does not directly address the prevention of respiratory complications related to immobility.