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Physiotherapy Preoperative Respiratory Assessment Pulmonology

Preoperative Respiratory Assessment

In this article we will discuss the Preoperative Respiratory Assessment

In this article, we will discuss the Preoperative Respiratory Assessment. So, let’s get started.

Respiratory Assessment

The followings should be assessed in detail:

  • Chest deformities: Kyphosis, kyphoscoliosis, pes excavatum and pectus carinatum
  • Breathing pattern: Normal rate of respiration 12-16 breaths/min. Inspiration:expiration- 1:2
  • Abnormal breathing patterns: Pursed lip breathing, apnea, hypoapnea, Cheynesokes respiration, ataxic breathing, apneuistic breathing
  • Chest movements: Symmetry of chest movements, depth of respiration, accessory muscle involvement
  • Chest expansion: It can be assessed both by observation and palpation
  • Dyspnea/breathlessness: It is known as increased work of breathing and can be assessed using “The New York Heart Association Scale of Dyspnea”

I- No symptoms with ordinary activities/No breathlessness with exertion

II- Symptoms with ordinary exercise

III- Symptoms with mild exertion

IV- Symptoms at rest

  • Orthopnea: Breathlessness while lying flat.

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