NCLEX Practice Test

During hospice care, which intervention aids in improving air flow and decreasing the perception of dyspnea?

1. Administering prescribed opioids

2. Placing a portable fan in the room

3. Providing low-flow oxygen via nasal cannula

4. Providing relaxation strategies such as music and guided imagery

The correct answer is: Administering prescribed opioids

The correct response highlights the administration of prescribed opioids as a significant intervention for managing dyspnea in hospice care. Opioids are effective in alleviating shortness of breath by acting on the central nervous system to reduce the perception of breathlessness and decreasing the work of breathing. They help relax the respiratory muscles and improve the overall comfort of the patient. While placement of a portable fan, provision of low-flow oxygen, and relaxation strategies can also contribute positively to the patient's comfort and perception of breathlessness, the specific mechanism by which opioids provide relief is particularly effective in hospice settings where managing symptoms and improving quality of life are paramount. These other options serve as complementary methods to enhance comfort, but they do not directly address the physiological changes associated with dyspnea as effectively as opioids do.