Which action supports breathing comfort for a patient with breathing problems?

• A. Allow the patient to sleep flat
• B. Keep head of bed elevated
• C. Ignore nasal irritation
• D. Withhold fluids

Answer: (B)

Raising the head of the bed helps breathing by letting the chest and lungs expand more freely and by reducing the effort needed to inhale. When the head is elevated (semi-Fowler to high-Fowler position, about 30–45 degrees or more as tolerated), the diaphragm can move more easily, airways stay more open, and oxygen exchange improves. This position also helps prevent shortness of breath and can lessen breathing difficulty for many patients with respiratory or cardiac issues. Lying flat can make breathing harder for someone with breathing problems, and other options don’t address comfort or airway clearance—their effects may even worsen it. Elevating the head of the bed is a simple, effective way to support breathing comfort.