Detecting changes in the respiratory status of ward patients.

This article outlines the principles of respiratory assessment. It is intended to be a learning tool for all nurses, however, it may have more relevance for nurses on general wards. Such nurses, unlike those who work in intensive care units and accident and emergency (A&E) departments, do not have the advantage of frequent presence of medical staff and may have to intervene promptly and autonomously in response to detected changes.