What is commonly observed during an initial assessment of a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Pursed lip breathing is a common technique utilized by patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to improve their breathing efficiency and manage symptoms of dyspnea. This method involves inhaling through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips, which helps to keep the airways open longer and reduces the work of breathing. It can also assist in prolonging expiration, allowing for better ventilation and gas exchange, which are often compromised in COPD patients.

This breathing pattern reflects the body's adaptation to minimize the feelings of breathlessness and is a learned behavior among those with chronic respiratory conditions. Therefore, observing a patient employing pursed lip breathing during the initial assessment is indicative of their effort to cope with the limitations imposed by COPD.