You Have Been Called to a Long-Term Nursing Care Facility

Multiple Choice

You have been called to a long-term nursing care facility for a 77-year-old female patient with Parkinson's disease. According to the nursing staff, she is more confused than normal and is to be transported to the emergency department for evaluation. Since the patient neither understands nor can answer any of your questions, which one of the following signs provides the best evidence that her breathing is adequate?

A) Respiratory rate of 18
B) Pulse oximeter reading at 98%
C) Clear breath sounds
D) Strong radial pulse