For many nurses, breath sounds are a difficult assessment. Perhaps it is that you weren't taught, perhaps you feel it is the doctors job, and perhaps you can do it, but because the culture of nursing inhibits this that you just don't; but for most nurses I teach, they agree that they just don't feel confident with the terminology.
For this episode of KYJ, I just want to highlight two terms.
Wheezes
Wheezes are polyphonic (multiple notes) of sound emitted when air is squeezed through narrow pipes. In respiratory conditions, wheeze may be heard when smooth muscles strangle or constrict bronchioles. Often heard in Asthma flare ups or exacerbations of COPD, a wheeze is the term for the sounds made during expiration.
Stridor
Stridor is actually a wheeze also, accept it is used to describe inspiratory sounds. Commonly a Stridor is heard when there is upper airway partial obstruction, eg a foreign body.
In our Assessment seminars we go into greater detail on breath sounds, auscultation and all the physiology.
Did you “refresh” your skills whilst reading this?
If so and you wish to “refresh” more, join us on the 8th – 9th December in Toowoomba for our Basic Nursing Assessment Skills Refresher Seminar. Those lucky to attend can also join us for our Christmas Party afterwards.
For further information or to enrol:
Email: admin@ect4health.com.au
Webpage: www.ect4health.com.au
Phone: 0410 690 003
Putting the science into the art of nursing
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