A child with a severe asthma attack becomes exhausted and has a falling level of consciousness. Which finding most strongly suggests impending respiratory failure?
Correct answer: B. Increasing drowsiness with poor air entry
- A. Mild wheezing with normal speech
- B. Increasing drowsiness with poor air entry
- C. Fast breathing with loud bilateral wheezing
- D. Anxiety with a slightly raised heart rate
Explanation
Drowsiness and poor air entry indicate fatigue and severely reduced ventilation, even if wheezing becomes less obvious. A loud wheeze can occur during distress, but a quiet chest with altered consciousness is a more dangerous sign.
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About Paediatric Emergencies
Paediatric emergencies cover rapid assessment using airway, breathing and circulation, basic life support, respiratory distress, choking, shock, seizures, poisoning, burns, severe dehydration and trauma. Questions focus on recognising danger signs, prioritising immediate nursing actions, calculating weight-based treatment and distinguishing compensated from decompensated shock.
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