CNA Certification (Written Exam)Communication and Psychosocial NeedsHard
A nurse aide caring for a dying resident notices a breathing pattern of rapid, shallow breaths alternating with periods of no breathing lasting several seconds. What is this pattern called, and what should the aide do?
- AChoking; perform abdominal thrusts right away
- BHyperventilation; have the resident breathe into a paper bag
- CSleep apnea; wake the resident immediately
- DCheyne-Stokes respirations; this is a normal sign of approaching death, so continue comfort care and notify the nurse
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Cheyne-Stokes respirations; this is a normal sign of approaching death, so continue comfort care and notify the nurse
Cheyne-Stokes respirations, characterized by cycles of rapid breathing followed by apnea, are a common and expected sign in the final hours of life. The nurse aide should continue providing comfort care and inform the nurse of the observation rather than intervening aggressively.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Abdominal thrusts are for choking, not for this breathing pattern.
- B. Paper bag breathing is used for hyperventilation, not end-of-life breathing changes.
- C. Waking the resident is unnecessary and may cause distress.
Cheyne-Stokes Respirations
An abnormal breathing pattern with cycles of rapid, shallow breaths followed by periods of apnea, commonly seen near the end of life.
- Sign of the body's systems slowing down before death
- Should be reported to the nurse, not treated as an emergency
- Comfort care continues; no CPR or resuscitation attempts needed unless directed
Memory trick: Breathe fast, then stop — Cheyne-Stokes is the body's final rhythm.