Which of the following are common signs of respiratory distress in a patient?

The correct choice identifies common signs of respiratory distress, which are critical for nurses and healthcare professionals to recognize quickly. Shortness of breath, an increased respiratory rate, and the use of accessory muscles are hallmark indicators of a patient struggling to breathe effectively.

Shortness of breath signifies that the body is not receiving enough oxygen, prompting the person to alter their breathing pattern. An increased respiratory rate occurs as the body attempts to compensate for lower oxygen levels or higher carbon dioxide levels in the blood. The use of accessory muscles, such as those in the neck and shoulders, indicates that the patient is employing additional muscles to assist in the breathing process, which is often a response to increased work of breathing or airway obstruction.

Recognizing these signs is vital in assessing a patient's respiratory status and initiating prompt interventions to ensure oxygenation and respiratory function are maintained. Other options present signs that may indicate different medical issues not specifically related to respiratory distress.