Which of the following is a common sign of inadequate oxygenation in a mechanically ventilated patient?

Confusion is a common sign of inadequate oxygenation in a mechanically ventilated patient because it indicates that the brain may not be receiving enough oxygen to function properly. When oxygen levels drop, particularly below a certain threshold (hypoxemia), the brain becomes particularly sensitive to the lack of oxygen, leading to neurological symptoms such as confusion, agitation, or lethargy. In a mechanically ventilated patient, this can be a crucial indicator that adjustments may need to be made to improve oxygen delivery, such as increasing the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) or optimizing ventilator settings.

Chronic cough, stable respiratory rate, and increased mobility are less indicative of inadequate oxygenation. A chronic cough may be more related to underlying conditions or irritants rather than an immediate sign of respiratory distress. A stable respiratory rate can often suggest that a patient is managing well or is in a stable state, and increased mobility usually indicates improved oxygenation and patient status. Therefore, confusion emerges as a strong indicator of inadequate oxygenation in mechanically ventilated patients.