What it means
The word has several uses. In breathing assessment, retractions are when the skin pulls inward at the ribs, below the breastbone or at the base of the neck as the person breathes in, because the breathing muscles are working hard; it is easier to see in infants and children. In childbirth, it is the shortening of the uterine muscle. In surgery, it means holding tissue back to see the area.
For the nurse
Describe where retractions are seen (intercostal, subcostal, substernal, suprasternal) and check breathing rate, effort and oxygen saturation. Report new or worsening retractions right away, especially in a child.
In a chart
"Infant with mild subcostal retractions, RR 58, SpO2 92%; provider notified."
At a glance
| Spanish | retracción, tiraje |
|---|---|
| Also written | retractions |
Related terms
dyspnea
Difficult or labored breathing, or the feeling of not getting enough air.
stridor
A high-pitched, harsh sound made while breathing, usually heard when breathing in.
respiratory rate
The number of breaths a person takes in one minute.
airway
The passages that carry air into and out of the lungs, from the nose and mouth to the smallest air tubes.