Which statement best describes breathing management for an obese patient during transport?

• A. Move the patient to full Fowler’s position.
• B. Place the patient supine.
• C. Do not restrict breathing.
• D. Increase physical activity during transport.

Answer: (C)

Not restricting breathing is essential because obesity lowers chest wall compliance and diaphragmatic excursion, making ventilation more fragile. During transport, the priority is to keep the airway open and avoid any constraint on the chest or abdomen. This means ensuring a patent airway, monitoring respiratory status, and providing supplemental oxygen as needed, while selecting positions that support breathing without causing additional restriction. Avoid measures that compress the chest or abdomen or that would increase work of breathing. Lying flat can worsen ventilation in obese patients, and increasing physical activity is not appropriate during transport.