A nurse is collecting data from a child who has asthma. Which of the following are indications of deterioration in the child's respiratory status? (Select All that Apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
B. Wheezing is a common symptom of asthma exacerbation and can indicate airway obstruction. Wheezing may worsen during an asthma attack, suggesting deterioration in respiratory status. C. Nasal flaring is a sign of increased respiratory effort and can occur during respiratory distress. In a child with asthma, nasal flaring may indicate worsening airway obstruction and increased work of breathing, suggesting deterioration in respiratory status. D. Retraction of sternal muscles, also known as intercostal retractions, occurs when the muscles between the ribs are drawn inward during inspiration, indicating increased effort to breathe. Intercostal retractions are a sign of respiratory distress and can occur in children with asthma during exacerbations, particularly when airway obstruction is severe. A. Warm extremities are not typically indicative of deterioration in respiratory status in a child with asthma. In fact, warm extremities may suggest adequate peripheral perfusion. E. An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range for most children and may not necessarily indicate deterioration in respiratory status. However, oxygen saturation should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical signs and symptoms.