What are typical signs of respiratory distress in a patient?

The typical signs of respiratory distress include rapid breathing, the use of accessory muscles, and cyanosis. Rapid breathing, or tachypnea, indicates that the body is trying to increase oxygen intake due to inadequate ventilation or oxygenation. The use of accessory muscles, such as those in the neck and shoulders, suggests that breathing is labored and may require additional muscle effort to inhale, which often occurs when the respiratory system is compromised.

Cyanosis, characterized by a bluish tint to the skin and mucous membranes, is a significant indicator of hypoxemia, or low oxygen levels in the blood. This sign indicates that the body is not receiving enough oxygen, and it can be a critical marker of severe respiratory distress.

Other options included signs that might be associated with respiratory issues, but they do not uniquely or consistently indicate respiratory distress. For instance, while shortness of breath and confusion can be symptoms of insufficient oxygenation, they are not as specific as the combination of rapid breathing, accessory muscle use, and cyanosis. Similarly, chest pain, dizziness, or wheezing might be related to respiratory problems but are not definitive indicators of respiratory distress on their own.