CPS Safety Watch/Alert – Respiratory Compromise

March 15, 2018 | By: Tina Hilmas, RN, BSN, CPPS

BACKGROUND

Respiratory Compromise is a state in which there is a high likelihood of decompensation into respiratory insufficiency, respiratory failure or death, but in which specific interventions (enhanced monitoring and/or therapies) might prevent or mitigate decompensation.

Respiratory Compromise creates problems that are often serious and potentially life-threatening, but they are almost always preventable with the proper tools and approach. Appropriate patient monitoring and therapeutic strategies are necessary for early recognition, intervention and treatment.

Common themes include:

Lack of appropriate monitoring and early identification of respiratory compromise
Distractions, complacency or failure to identify high risk patients at transitions of care
Not anticipating respiratory complications or lack of situation awareness
Complications and risks from procedural sedation

ACTIONS TO TAKE:

Understand the pathophysiology and clinical factors of respiratory compromise
Early identification of patients at risk
Appropriate and timely patient monitoring
Appropriate and prompt interventions and treatment

RESOURCES
*Respiratory Compromise Institute

Thanks to Dr. Brian Froelke, CPS

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