A patient’s respiratory rate is 30 breaths per minute. What is the FIRST intervention the therapist should perform to help slow the rate?

• A. Inspiratory hold
• B. Pursed-lip breathing
• C. Diaphragmatic breathing
• D. Active cycle of breathing

Answer: (B)

Slowing a rapid breathing pattern is best achieved by a breathing pattern that lengthens expiration and provides some resistance. Pursed-lip breathing does this by exhaling through slightly pressed lips, which creates back pressure and slows the exhalation phase. That longer, controlled exhale helps reduce rapid, shallow breaths, lowers the work of breathing, and typically lowers the respiratory rate quickly. It’s simple to teach at the bedside and can be implemented immediately to address tachypnea.

Inhaled hold targets inspiratory control but doesn’t directly address exhalation timing to slow rate; diaphragmatic breathing improves efficiency and reduces use of accessory muscles; active cycle of breathing is a broader technique for airway clearance and ventilation, not the first step specifically aimed at decreasing rate.