National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What is a common indication for pacing breathing techniques in patients?

1. Managing hypoxemia

2. Decreasing respiratory alkalosis

3. Improving lung compliance

4. Increasing lung expansion

The correct answer is: Decreasing respiratory alkalosis

Pacing breathing techniques are primarily indicated for managing respiratory alkalosis. This condition often arises from hyperventilation, where a patient breathes too quickly and eliminates excess carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in blood pH. By employing pacing breathing techniques, patients can slow their breathing rate, which helps retain carbon dioxide and normalize their blood pH levels, thus alleviating symptoms associated with respiratory alkalosis. Other choices may relate to respiratory management but do not specifically highlight the role of pacing breathing techniques. For example, while managing hypoxemia may involve various therapeutic interventions, it isn't a direct indication for pacing techniques. Similarly, improving lung compliance and increasing lung expansion are more associated with exercises that target lung mechanics rather than the pacing of breathing as a strategy to counteract overly rapid breathing patterns.