What is the priority intervention for a client with cirrhosis and difficulty breathing?

The priority intervention for a client with cirrhosis experiencing difficulty breathing is to elevate the head of the bed to 60 degrees. This intervention is crucial for improving the client's respiratory status. By elevating the head of the bed, you assist in decreasing the pressure on the diaphragm caused by abdominal distention, which is common in cirrhosis due to ascites or hepatomegaly.

Elevating the head facilitates better lung expansion, increases tidal volume, and promotes more effective gas exchange, making it easier for the client to breathe. This positioning also minimizes the risk of aspiration, particularly in clients who may be at risk due to altered level of consciousness or other factors associated with liver disease, such as hepatic encephalopathy.

While other interventions, such as repositioning the client or encouraging deep breathing exercises, may also contribute to comfort and potentially aid respiratory function, elevating the head of the bed directly addresses the immediate challenge of difficulty breathing in this context. Additionally, auscultating lung fields is important but is typically a part of assessment rather than a primary intervention for immediate relief of breathing difficulties.