Word parts
What it means
Shortness of breath that comes on when the person lies down and gets better when they sit up. Clients often describe it by the number of pillows they need to sleep ("three-pillow orthopnea"). It is a common finding in heart failure, when fluid backs up into the lungs, and in some lung diseases.
For the nurse
Ask how many pillows the client sleeps on and whether they wake up short of breath; a change in either is worth reporting. Position the client upright (high Fowler's, or leaning forward over the overbed table) and check lung sounds for crackles.
In a chart
"Client states she now sleeps on three pillows because she cannot breathe lying flat."
Remember it
Ortho means upright: the breathing is only comfortable upright.
At a glance
| Spanish | ortopnea |
|---|---|
| Also written | orthopneic |