Final answer:
In a patient with stridor and respiratory distress but normal O2 saturation, upper airway obstruction should be suspected. Normal O2 levels can be misleading, so additional signs should be monitored, and immediate steps to secure the airway and supplemental oxygen could be necessary. Further diagnostic tests can help determine the specific cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
When encountering a patient with stridor who appears in respiratory distress but has a normal O2 saturation, several conditions should be considered. Stridor indicates a potential upper airway obstruction which can be life-threatening, despite normal oxygen saturation levels. Normal O2 readings can be deceiving as oxygen saturation can drop precipitously once the patient fatigues or if the condition worsens.
It is important to assess for other signs of respiratory compromise such as tachypnea, use of accessory muscles, and altered mental state. A thorough history and physical examination are crucial and should be followed by appropriate imaging and lab tests to determine the cause of the respiratory distress. Potential causes might include anaphylaxis, foreign body aspiration, epiglottitis, vocal cord dysfunction, or tracheal stenosis, among others.
Immediate steps should include ensuring the airway is open, providing supplemental oxygen if needed, and preparing for potential airway management interventions. Advanced diagnostic tests, such as a chest radiograph and blood gas analysis, may aid in understanding the degree of respiratory impairment and guiding further management.