Final answer:
A patient who presents with variable, irregular respiratory rate, variable respiratory effort, and shallow breathing is likely experiencing respiratory distress.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient who presents with variable, irregular respiratory rate, variable respiratory effort, and shallow breathing is likely experiencing respiratory distress.
True.
In respiratory distress, the respiratory rate may be increased or decreased, but it is often variable and irregular. The respiratory effort may also be variable, and the breathing is often shallow. These symptoms indicate that the patient is having difficulty in breathing and requires medical attention.