Question

If you are treating a patient with respiratory complaints and the patient is​ cyanotic, it could indicate that the patient​ is:

A. in need of a respiratory treatment.
B. having an altered mental status.
C. having an AMI (Acute Myocardial Infarction).
D. in respiratory failure.

Answer 1

Cyanosis in a patient with respiratory complaints generally indicates respiratory failure, as it is a sign of inadequate oxygenation of the blood.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient with respiratory complaints exhibits cyanosis, this could indicate that the patient is in respiratory failure. Cyanosis is a bluish discoloration of the skin resulting from poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation of the blood. This condition might also lead to altered mental status due to the lack of oxygen.

While conditions such as an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or a need for respiratory treatment can associate with respiratory symptoms, the presence of cyanosis specifically is more indicative of respiratory failure, particularly when other symptoms such as gasping for air and confusion are present.