Treatment of patient with severe shortness of breath

Important things to know:

• Assess and treat for bronchospastic and coughing components.
• Assess and treat for fluid overload/edematous components.
• Assess and treat for anxiety.

Hypoxia directed interventions:

• Cooler room temperature, fan use.
• Behavioral measures: Yoga, relaxation techniques, and breathing control.
• Posture position—upright.
• Possible drug treatment: Opiods, Benzodiazepines
• Oxygen supplementation if possible.