Respiratory Assessment: Physical Signs and Diagnostics
Classified in Medicine & Health
Written on in
English with a size of 4.68 KB
Head: Coloration and Cyanosis
Coloration: Cyanosis
Is cyanosis present? Cyanosis is not always blue! There is one exception: Pink Cherry coloration taken for carbon monoxide poisoning (CO).
Cyanosis may be central (fingertips hot) or peripheral (distal extremities cold). The distinction between central and peripheral cyanosis sets the type of respiratory illness.
Central cyanosis is also indicated when pressing the earlobe does not restore color, remaining pale blue.
Eyes
Note coloring, especially in joggers. Look for bulging eyes.
Lips
Observe "pursed-lip breathing". This breathing pattern is often acquired in respiratory illness. The patient produces whistling sounds and it is designed to extend the expiration time, optimizing breathing.
Nose
Check... Continue reading "Respiratory Assessment: Physical Signs and Diagnostics" »