Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the CRRN Exam with practice quizzes that include flashcards, hints, and explanations. Ensure success by testing your rehabilitation nursing knowledge with confidence-building tools and resources.

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What is usually the first sign of respiratory muscle fatigue?

An increase in respiratory rate
A decrease in oxygen saturation
Cyanosis of the lips
Change in level of consciousness

The correct answer is: An increase in respiratory rate

An increase in respiratory rate is typically the first sign of respiratory muscle fatigue because the body attempts to compensate for decreased efficiency in the respiratory muscles. When respiratory muscles become fatigued, they are less able to effectively ventilate the lungs, leading to an initial increase in the respiratory rate as the body tries to maintain adequate oxygenation and remove carbon dioxide. During periods of muscle fatigue, the respiratory drive may increase in an effort to enhance ventilation. This compensatory mechanism can lead to tachypnea (rapid breathing) as the body signals for more breaths to help meet its oxygen demands. Recognizing this initial sign can be crucial for healthcare providers, as it may indicate the need for further assessment and intervention to support the patient's breathing before more severe signs, such as decreased oxygen saturation or changes in consciousness, arise.