When assessing a patient for signs of hypoxemia, which of the following should the nurse interpret as a late sign?

A) Increased respiratory rate
B) Increased heart rate
C) Diaphoresis
D) Agitation


Ans: C
Feedback: Initially, the respiratory rate increases to obtain more oxygen, the heart rate increases in response to increased energy demands, and the patient experiences agitation from early cerebral hypoxia. Later, as the patient continues to work to obtain oxygen, the skin becomes diaphoretic and cool from vasoconstriction. Increased respiratory rate, increased heart rate, and agitation are early signs of hypoxemia.

Nursing

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