Which statement about pursed-lip breathing is true for COPD patients?

• A. It shortens expiration time
• B. It lengthens inspiration and reduces exhalation effort
• C. It increases airway resistance during exhalation
• D. It prolongs expiration and reduces airway collapse

Answer: (D)

Pursed-lip breathing in COPD works by creating a bit of positive pressure in the airways as you exhale. That backpressure helps keep the small airways from collapsing during expiration, which is a common problem in COPD. Because the exhalation is slowed and the airways stay open longer, more complete emptying of the lungs occurs, which reduces air trapping and lowers the work of breathing.

So the statement that best fits is that pursed-lip breathing prolongs expiration and reduces airway collapse. This aligns with how the technique helps COPD patients improve ventilation and ease breathlessness. It does not shorten expiration or lengthen inhalation; it specifically lengthens the expiratory phase and stabilizes the airways during that phase.