breathing assessment

Breathing assessment refers to the process of evaluating how well a person breathes. It involves observing the rate, rhythm, and depth of breathing, as well as listening for sounds like wheezing or crackles using a stethoscope. Healthcare professionals may also check oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter. This assessment helps identify any breathing difficulties or conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Understanding a person’s breathing patterns is crucial for diagnosing and managing respiratory health effectively.