Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPNRE Practice Questions and Study Guide

Orthopnea refers to the difficulty in breathing that occurs when an individual is lying down and is typically relieved by sitting or standing. Choosing the option that describes orthopnea as an abnormal condition requiring an upright posture for breathing captures the essence of this symptom. Individuals with orthopnea often experience increased shortness of breath when reclining, leading them to adopt a more upright position to breathe more comfortably. This condition is often observed in patients with heart failure or respiratory conditions, where lying flat exacerbates their symptoms due to changes in body mechanics and fluid distribution in the lungs.

While there are references to other types of breathing difficulties or normal respiratory conditions mentioned in the alternative choices, they do not specifically classify or detail the unique challenge that orthopnea presents, which is the need for an upright position to alleviate breathing distress.