What should be monitored closely in a patient with an altered mental status?

In patients with altered mental status, monitoring respiratory status is critical because changes in the ability to maintain effective breathing can be a significant and immediate threat to the individual's life. The altered level of consciousness can lead to inadequate ventilation or airway obstruction, which may not be immediately apparent but can result in hypoxia or respiratory failure.

Respiratory function encompasses various factors including the respiratory rate, depth of breathing, and the presence of any abnormal sounds, such as wheezing or stridor. Close monitoring allows for timely intervention if there are signs of respiratory distress or compromise, ensuring that oxygen levels remain adequate and that carbon dioxide is being effectively expelled.

While monitoring body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate can provide valuable information about the patient's overall condition, these parameters do not directly assess the immediate threat posed by potential respiratory failure. Hence, the focus on respiratory status is essential in the management of a patient exhibiting altered mental state.