What should the nurse do when caring for a terminally ill patient who has noisy respirations?

When caring for a terminally ill patient experiencing noisy respirations, turning the patient every two hours is a beneficial practice. This action can help facilitate better lung expansion and improve overall respiratory function. By repositioning the patient, the nurse can assist in draining secretions that may be causing the noisy breathing. Additionally, changing positions can help relieve pressure on the lungs and promote comfort, which is particularly essential in palliative care settings.

Maintaining good respiratory function is vital for patients in this stage, and regular repositioning is a key nursing intervention to aid in the management of respiratory distress and enhance the patient’s comfort. This approach can significantly improve the quality of life for terminally ill patients as they face their final days.