Patient Scenario: A college student, arrives at the emergenc…
Patient Scenario: A college student, arrives at the emergency department with shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness that began about an hour ago after exposure to dust while cleaning their apartment. Pt. states, “I used my rescue inhaler twice, but it’s not helping much.” Vital Signs on Admission: BP: 132/86 mm Hg HR: 110 bpm RR: 24/min, labored Temp: 99.0°F (37.2°C) O₂ Sat: 88% on room air Nurse’s Note: Patient sitting upright, anxious, using accessory muscles to breathe. Audible expiratory wheezes in all lung fields. Speaking in short phrases. Rescue inhaler used prior to arrival. Oxygen applied at 2 L/min via nasal cannula. Provider notified. Which nursing assessment finding best indicates that this patient is experiencing respiratory distress and poor oxygenation?