A Patient Has Suddenly Developed Shortness of Breath and Appears

A patient has suddenly developed shortness of breath and appears to be in significant respiratory distress.Which of the following is the best action for the nurse to take?

A) Count the respirations and put a call in to the physician.
B) Percuss the thorax bilaterally,noting any differences in percussion tones.
C) Call for a chest x-ray and wait for the results before beginning an assessment.
D) Inspect the thorax for any new masses and bleeding associated with respirations.