A dying resident's breathing becomes irregular, with periods of rapid breathing followed by pauses. What should the nursing assistant do?

• A.Tell the family the pattern means the resident is recovering
• B.Start vigorous exercise of the resident's arms and legs
• C.Report the breathing change to the nurse, keep the resident comfortable, and elevate the head if it helps and is allowed
• D.Withhold the information because breathing always changes

Why

Irregular breathing with pauses, often called Cheyne-Stokes breathing, is common near death and should be reported. Comfort positioning helps; it is not a sign of recovery.

Content outline: Psychosocial Care Skills - Care of the Dying Resident: Death and Postmortem Care · From the Psychosocial Care Skills practice bank (PS-071).

Practice this domain as a full test

More Death, Dying & Postmortem Care questions

• A dying resident says, 'The tests must be wrong. I feel fine and I will be home next week.' In Kübler-Ross terms, this statement most reflects:
• A resident near the end of life snaps at staff and family over small matters and says, 'Why is this happening to me?' This behavior may reflect which stage of grief?
• A dying resident says, 'If I can live until my granddaughter graduates, I promise I will never complain again.' This is an example of:
• In the weeks before death, a resident becomes quiet, sleeps more, cries at times, and shows little interest in visits. This may reflect:
• A resident who is dying speaks calmly about wanting his affairs in order and says goodbye to family without distress. This most suggests: