Pulsus paradoxus greater than 20 mm Hg, tachycardia greater than 130 beats/min, and increasing dyspnea are signs of
A)intracranial pressure.
B)pulmonary hypertension.
C)status asthmaticus.
D)tetanic contractions.
E)drug overdose.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Status asthmaticus is a severe and prolonged asthma attack that resists usual therapeutic approaches. The patient experiences dyspnea, can only get out a few words between breaths, and has tachycardia often more than 130 beats/min and pulsus paradoxus greater than 20 mm Hg. Pulsus paradoxus is more likely in pericardial effusion, constrictive pericarditis, and severe asthma.

Pulsus Paradoxus Greater Than 20 Mm Hg, Tachycardia Greater Than