Which of the following vital signs signifies the most critical state in a lethargic patient?

Which of the following vital signs signifies the most critical state in a lethargic patient?

• A. Respirations of 22
• B. Heart rate of 110
• C. Blood pressure of 98/60
• D. Respirations of 6

Answer: (D)

In assessing vital signs for a lethargic patient, a respiratory rate of 6 signifies the most critical state. This low respiratory rate indicates severe hypoventilation, which can lead to insufficient oxygenation and CO2 retention in the body. The respiratory drive may be compromised due to central nervous system depression, respiratory pathology, or an underlying metabolic condition. In contrast, a respiratory rate of 22 could indicate mild hyperventilation or increased respiratory demand, which, while noteworthy, does not reflect the immediate life-threatening condition that a rate of 6 indicates. A heart rate of 110 is indicative of tachycardia but does not signify as immediate a threat as an extremely low respiratory rate, which places the patient at risk of respiratory failure. Similarly, a blood pressure of 98/60 suggests mild hypotension, but it doesn’t pose the same critical risk as significantly depressed respiratory function. Therefore, a respiratory rate of 6 is the most alarming vital sign in this scenario, warranting urgent medical intervention.

In assessing vital signs for a lethargic patient, a respiratory rate of 6 signifies the most critical state. This low respiratory rate indicates severe hypoventilation, which can lead to insufficient oxygenation and CO2 retention in the body. The respiratory drive may be compromised due to central nervous system depression, respiratory pathology, or an underlying metabolic condition.

In contrast, a respiratory rate of 22 could indicate mild hyperventilation or increased respiratory demand, which, while noteworthy, does not reflect the immediate life-threatening condition that a rate of 6 indicates. A heart rate of 110 is indicative of tachycardia but does not signify as immediate a threat as an extremely low respiratory rate, which places the patient at risk of respiratory failure. Similarly, a blood pressure of 98/60 suggests mild hypotension, but it doesn’t pose the same critical risk as significantly depressed respiratory function. Therefore, a respiratory rate of 6 is the most alarming vital sign in this scenario, warranting urgent medical intervention.