6 Early Recognition of Respiratory Deterioration Free Online FlashCards

Which changes can signal early respiratory deterioration?

Watch for changes in respiratory rate or effort, speech, alertness, oxygen requirement, and the patient’s overall clinical trend.

Why can an acceptable SpO₂ fail to rule out respiratory deterioration?

Supplemental oxygen can maintain SpO₂ while ventilation worsens and carbon dioxide rises. Assess the patient’s breathing and alertness rather than relying on saturation alone.

Is a normal PaCO₂ reassuring in a severely exhausted patient with asthma?

No. In severe asthma with exhaustion or marked respiratory effort, a normal PaCO₂ can signal fatigue and impending ventilatory failure.

What does a silent chest in severe asthma require?

A silent chest, exhaustion, or altered consciousness is an emergency finding. Urgently escalate care and activate the rapid response or emergency team.

What acid–base pattern is indicated by low pH and raised PaCO₂?

A low pH with raised PaCO₂ indicates respiratory acidosis. Raised bicarbonate may reflect some chronic compensation.

Which SpO₂ target should guide oxygen therapy?

Use the patient’s prescribed target and local protocol. The material gives 88–92% for patients with COPD receiving oxygen and 94–98% for most adults receiving oxygen.

Pneumonia patient: SpO₂ is 95%, but breathing effort and confusion worsen. What should drive escalation?

The rising respiratory rate, increased effort, and new confusion indicate deterioration. Reassess promptly and activate the local urgent escalation pathway, even if SpO₂ appears acceptable.

A breathless patient’s oximeter reading conflicts with their appearance and measured pulse. What should you do?

Check sensor position and signal, warm the hand if appropriate, and repeat at a suitable site. Assess the patient and escalate if unwell; troubleshooting must not delay urgent care.

What factors can affect pulse-oximeter readings?

Poor circulation, movement, skin pigmentation, skin temperature, and nail polish can affect pulse-oximeter readings.

How should SpO₂ be used in clinical assessment?

SpO₂ complements clinical assessment; it does not replace assessment of breathing, circulation, and mental status.

How should current respiratory findings be interpreted against prior observations?

Compare current findings with the patient’s baseline and assess the trend. A single value may not reveal worsening; escalate promptly when the patient is deteriorating or concern is significant.

What key information should you communicate when escalating respiratory deterioration?

Report the change and trend, oxygen use, relevant history, and your concern. Use structured communication such as SBAR when handing over.