Respiratory Examination

Respiratory Examination

🫁 Respiratory Examination

This shared component allows clinicians to document respiratory observations, including rate and oxygen saturation, during routine reviews or acute assessments. It is useful in gauging respiratory effort and detecting signs of deterioration or distress.


🧭 When Will I See This?

  • During physical examination or clinical observations

  • In patients with asthma, COPD, suspected infection, or respiratory compromise


📋 What To Record



Field
Purpose
Respiratory RateIdentifies signs of increased effort or distress
Oxygen Saturation (SpO₂)Non-invasive measure of oxygenation
Clinical NotesNotes on wheeze, use of accessory muscles, cyanosis, or distress

📘 Some templates may prompt escalation pathways when low saturations or high RR are recorded


🧠 Why This Matters

  • Elevated RR and low SpO₂ may indicate uncontrolled asthma or infection

  • Helps risk-stratify and prompt urgent referral if needed

  • Can support documentation for QOF, LES, and hospital-at-home models

🟣 May be required for comprehensive asthma or respiratory template completion


💬 Suggested Questions to Ask

  • “Have you felt more short of breath than usual?”

  • “Do you wake up at night needing to catch your breath?”

  • “Has anyone mentioned that you look breathless or are breathing quickly?”

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