Question

An adult patient with an abnormal respiratory rate should:

A) be given oxygen at 4 L/min with a nasal cannula.
B) be assessed immediately for heart rate abnormalities.
C) be evaluated for other signs of inadequate ventilation.
D) receive ventilatory assistance with a bag-mask device.

Answer 1

An adult patient with an abnormal respiratory rate should be evaluated for other signs of inadequate ventilation.

Step-by-step explanation:

An adult patient with an abnormal respiratory rate should be evaluated for other signs of inadequate ventilation. The respiratory rate is an essential indicator of the adequacy of ventilation, and abnormalities can suggest problems with the lungs or airways. Assessing for other signs of inadequate ventilation, such as cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin), use of accessory breathing muscles, and abnormal breath sounds, can help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate interventions.