24. A patient in acute respiratory failure is being prepared for intubation. What clinical assessment indicates the most immediate need for intubation?
A.
Patient is sleeping quietly
B.
Rapidly worsening respiratory distress, declining oxygen saturation despite supplemental oxygen, and altered mental status
✓
C.
Mild cough
D.
Stable vital signs
📖 Additional Information
Patient is sleeping quietly
Rapidly worsening respiratory distress, declining oxygen saturation despite supplemental oxygen, and altered mental status
