This lesson on Respiratory Changes includes a complete in-service training packet. It takes approximately one hour to complete and fully meets the Medicare in-service training requirement for one hour of hospice aide training.

The lesson is easy to use and written specifically for hospice aides. As aides need training, simply copy the pages from each lesson as needed—the only restriction is that aides receiving training must work from your office location. Remember, your hospice aides must have 12 hours of in-service training every year.

LESSON OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this program, the hospice aide will be able to:

• Define dyspnea
• List three terminal illnesses that may lead to dyspnea and
• Name three ways to ease a patient’s breathing

OVERVIEW
At the end of life, terminally ill patients experience dramatic changes in respiration patterns. Some estimate that about 70% of people in their last six weeks of life experience dyspnea and other breathing changes. These patients may struggle and gasp for air, causing fear and panic for themselves and for the family or caregiver. Family physicians find dyspnea and other breathing changes to be the most distressing symptom for dying patients, even more so than pain. Although lung and heart problems are the main cause of dyspnea, many other disease processes also affect breathing.

Each hospice patient has a unique plan of care that addresses these symptoms and offers methods for relief. It is important to quickly recognize changes in breathing as a terminal illness progresses. Prompt treatment is essential for the well-being of the patient and family.

Many basic activities of daily living contribute to dyspnea. A competent aide must know how to recognize and help to relieve breathing problems. Support may be physical or emotional.

ALSO
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