What are common signs of respiratory distress in a patient?

The signs of respiratory distress in a patient encompass several observable indicators that reflect the body’s struggle to obtain adequate oxygen. Increased respiratory rate is a primary response to insufficient oxygenation, as the body attempts to compensate by trying to pull in more air. The use of accessory muscles for breathing is another critical sign; when the diaphragm and intercostal muscles alone are not sufficient, the body recruits additional muscles in the neck and abdomen, indicating significant respiratory strain.

Nasal flaring is commonly seen in both children and adults under distress and indicates the body's effort to increase airflow, while wheezing typically signifies airway constriction or obstruction, often present in conditions like asthma or bronchospasm. Together, these signs point to a clear distress state in the respiratory system, effectively highlighting the need for immediate assessment and intervention.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with typical signs of respiratory distress. Low heart rate and lethargy could indicate other health issues, such as bradycardia or a state of shock but do not directly point to respiratory problems. Similarly, high blood pressure and sweating might suggest stress or pain responses rather than clear respiratory challenges. Finally, slow breathing could actually indicate respiratory depression, while abdominal pain is unlikely to be a sign of respiratory