Why is this important?
Shortness of breath is a big problem for many home care patients.
Shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, is uncomfortable. Many
patients with heart or lung problems have shortness of breath
because they can’t get enough oxygen to their body. If you have
shortness of breath you breathe faster than normal and feel like you
can’t get enough air. This makes you uncomfortable and anxious.
Shortness of breath can make you tire easily and unable to do normal
activities. It is important that your doctor and home health staff
check your breathing. They should teach you ways to improve your
breathing and be as comfortable as possible.
This information comes from the Home Health Outcome and
Assessment Information Set (OASIS) during the time period
June 2004 - May 2005.
