What is a nursing intervention for a patient experiencing dyspnea?

Positioning the patient in a semi-Fowler's position is an appropriate nursing intervention for managing dyspnea. This position, which involves the patient sitting up at an angle (typically between 30 to 45 degrees), promotes better lung expansion and decreases the work of breathing by using gravity to help with diaphragm movement. It allows for improved oxygenation and comfort by reducing pressure on the diaphragm from abdominal contents, facilitating easier airflow into the lungs.

While other interventions, such as administering supplemental oxygen or encouraging deep breathing exercises, are critical in managing dyspnea as well, the semi-Fowler's position is particularly effective in providing immediate relief and can be easily implemented. Monitoring vital signs frequently is indeed essential for a comprehensive assessment but does not directly alleviate the symptoms of dyspnea in the same immediate way positional changes do.