assessment

Last reviewed 01/2018

Factors to consider include:

• pulse rate:
• if the tachycardia is persistently 120 to 140 beats per minute the patient is still in danger
• a falling pulse rate is an ominous feature

• appearance of patient:
• character of breathing
• facial expression
• position in bed

• peak flow rate:
• is an objective measurement of progress
• it can be measured before and after nebulisers

• estimation of blood gas tensions:
• it is necessary to monitor the PaO2 and PaCO2
• a rise in the PaCO2 suggests respiratory failure and intermittent positive pressure ventilation should be considered