What should the nurse teach a client with emphysema to improve gas exchange?

The focus of teaching a client with emphysema should include specific techniques that enhance gas exchange and manage symptoms effectively. Pursed-lip breathing is particularly beneficial for individuals with emphysema as it helps to maintain open airways and improve the efficiency of gas exchange. This technique allows for prolonged expiration, which reduces air trapping in the lungs and promotes better oxygenation by allowing carbon dioxide to be expelled more effectively. It can also help alleviate the feeling of breathlessness during episodes of dyspnea.

While deep breathing exercises can be helpful in certain circumstances, pursed-lip breathing is specifically tailored to address the challenges faced by those with emphysema, making it an essential skill for patients to adopt. Gradually increasing physical activity and avoiding respiratory irritants are also important aspects of management for those with emphysema, but they do not directly focus on improving gas exchange in the way that pursed-lip breathing does during times of respiratory distress.