Which of the following patients is showing the signs of acute respiratory distress?

a. One who is in a semi-Fowler position, watching TV, with a 2 L/min nasal cannu-la
b. One who is in the high Fowler position, diaphoretic, anxious, and unable to com-plete a sentence
c. One who is leaning forward on a table, using accessory muscles, and purse-lip breathing
d. One who is in the high Fowler position, with a 2 L/min nasal cannula, eating breakfast


ANS: B
The patient who is sitting upright, who is diaphoretic, anxious, and unable to speak in full sen-tences is most likely in acute respiratory distress. The patient who is leaning forward with acces-sory muscle use and pursed lips is most likely a patient with chronic respiratory distress. The two other patients, although they are receiving oxygen, do not seem to be having a hard time breath-ing.

Health Professions

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