Two hours after admission for asthma exacerbation, the 10-year-old boy is lethargic with mottled skin color. He has increased the use of accessory muscles and demonstrates nasal flaring. He is unable to speak and his respiratory rate has increased. The nurse would suspect:
A)Improvement in his condition is imminent.
B)Respiratory failure is imminent.
C)The medical diagnosis is incorrect and the child should be diagnosed with pneumonia.
D)The child may be receiving too much oxygen, which is a respiratory depressant.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described indicate that the child's condition is worsening and he may be on the verge of respiratory failure. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further deterioration.

Two Hours After Admission for Asthma Exacerbation, the 10-Year-Old Boy