Which intervention is considered effective in promoting normal respiratory function in a patient with respiratory failure following cardiac surgery?

Reducing anxiety in a patient who has experienced respiratory failure following cardiac surgery plays a crucial role in promoting normal respiratory function. Anxiety can lead to increased oxygen demand due to elevated heart rate and respiratory rate, and it may also provoke hyperventilation. When a patient is anxious, their ability to take deep breaths may be compromised, leading to inadequate ventilation and impaired gas exchange.

By implementing measures to reduce anxiety, healthcare providers can help stabilize the patient's breathing pattern, enhance comfort, and allow for more effective use of the respiratory muscles. Techniques such as reassurance, education about the recovery process, and the provision of a calm and supportive environment can significantly enhance the patient’s overall recovery, leading to improved respiratory mechanics and function.

In contrast, the other choices may not effectively promote normal respiratory function. Increasing supplemental oxygen might temporarily alleviate hypoxemia but does not directly address the underlying problem if anxiety is causing respiratory distress. Limiting patient movement might hinder early mobilization, which is vital for recovery and lung health. Administering additional sedatives can further depress the respiratory drive, potentially leading to worsened respiratory function, particularly in a patient already experiencing respiratory failure.