While assessing an unconscious patient, the respiratory therapist observes that the patient's breathing becomes progressively faster and deeper and then progressively becomes slower and shallower. After that, there is a period of apnea before the cycle begins again. This breathing pattern would be identified as:
A) Cheyne-Stokes.
B) tachypnea.
C) Kussmaul.
D) hyperventilation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The abnormal breathing pattern called Cheyne-Stokes is identified by progressively faster and deeper breathing that then progressively becomes slower and more shallow. After that there is a period of apnea before the cycle begins again. Tachypnea is rapid breathing. Kussmaul breathing is consistently fast and deep breathing. Hyperventilation is confirmed by a low carbon dioxide level.

While Assessing an Unconscious Patient, the Respiratory Therapist Observes That