Which of the following is NOT a warning sign of respiratory arrest?

• A. Slowing respiratory rate
• B. Dyspnea
• C. Cyanosis
• D. Tachycardia

Answer: (D)

When ventilatory status is deteriorating, the body shows signs that ventilation and oxygenation are failing. Slowing respiratory rate can indicate fatigue or depressant effects on breathing and often precedes a full arrest, so it’s a warning that ventilation is crashing. Dyspnea signals that breathing is struggling, reflecting increased work of breathing and compromised gas exchange. Cyanosis appears when oxygen delivery to tissues is insufficient, a late but critical indicator that the airway or lungs aren’t providing adequate oxygen. Tachycardia, while common during distress and a response to hypoxia or stress, is a non-specific systemic reaction and does not by itself signal that respiratory arrest is imminent. Therefore, tachycardia is not a reliable warning sign of respiratory arrest.