What vital sign can indicate respiratory distress?

• A. Pulse rate
• B. Blood pressure
• C. Respiration rate
• D. Temperature

Answer: (C)

Respiration rate is a key vital sign that directly reflects a person's respiratory function and can indicate respiratory distress. When a person's respiratory system is compromised, the body often responds by altering the rate and depth of breathing. An increased respiration rate, known as tachypnea, can signal that the body is struggling to acquire sufficient oxygen or is attempting to expel carbon dioxide. Conversely, a decreased rate may suggest severe respiratory distress or failure.

When assessing respiratory distress, healthcare providers carefully observe not just the frequency of inhalation and exhalation but also the quality of breathing, such as whether it is labored or shallow. Changes in respiration rate can occur due to various conditions including infections, obstructions, or chronic respiratory diseases, making it a critical indicator for evaluating a patient's respiratory health.

Other vital signs, such as pulse rate, blood pressure, and temperature, may provide important overall health information, but they do not specifically indicate respiratory distress as directly as the respiration rate does. Thus, measuring the respiration rate is essential for detecting and monitoring respiratory distress effectively.