The nursing role in respiratory care for COVID-19 patients

Nurses play a crucial role in managing dyspnea, persistent cough, and cardiopulmonary parameters in non-intubated patients with COVID-19 through non-pharmacological interventions. As frontline caregivers, they assess patients' respiratory status, monitor vital signs, and identifyindividual needs to tailor appropriate interventions.One effective strategy is the application of the prostrate position, which involves having patients lie flat on their stomachs. This position can enhance lung function by improving ventilation-perfusion ratios and promoting better oxygenation. Nurses are responsible for educating patients on the benefits of this position and assisting them in achieving it comfortably, ensuring that they remain safe and supported during the process.In addition to positioning, nurses implement coughing exercises to help clear airway secretions and improve respiratory efficiency. These exercises can range from simple deep-breathing techniques to more structured coughing strategies. Nurses guide patients through these exercises, emphasizing the importance of effective coughing to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia.

Autorentext
Dr. Haider Nawaf Abd Ali holds a Bachelor's degree, Master's, and a PhD of Adult Nursing in Iraq. With 20 years of clinical experience in critical care, respiratory care unit, coronary care unit, and emergency unit, he also has over 10 years of teaching adult nursing subjects effectively.