What Are the Key Components of Respiratory Monitoring?
The key components of respiratory monitoring include:
1. Respiratory Rate: The number of breaths a patient takes per minute. Normal respiratory rates vary by age but typically range from 12 to 20 breaths per minute for adults. 2. Oxygen Saturation (SpO2): Measured using pulse oximetry, this indicates the percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen. Normal SpO2 levels usually range from 95% to 100%. 3. Breath Sounds: Auscultation of the lungs to detect abnormal sounds such as wheezes, crackles, or diminished breath sounds. 4. Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs): Provide information on gas exchange, including oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, as well as blood pH. 5. Capnography: Measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air, which can be critical for patients on mechanical ventilation.
