Which vital sign changes may indicate inadequate ventilation due to thoracic trauma?

The indication of inadequate ventilation due to thoracic trauma is most accurately represented by an increased respiratory rate and decreased oxygen saturation. When thoracic trauma occurs, it can compromise the ability of the lungs to adequately exchange gases. This may happen due to factors such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or lung contusions, which can impede normal respiratory function.

An increased respiratory rate reflects the body's attempt to compensate for reduced oxygen levels in the bloodstream, signaling a struggle to achieve adequate ventilation. At the same time, decreased oxygen saturation indicates that the oxygen levels in the blood are not reaching optimal levels, confirming that ventilation is insufficient. Together, these changes are critical indicators of potential respiratory failure and warrant further assessment and intervention.

In contrast, other choices present vital sign changes that do not directly correlate with the typical presentation of inadequate ventilation resulting from thoracic trauma. The combination of decreased blood pressure and increased heart rate might occur in various shock states but does not specifically point to inadequate ventilation. Normal heart rate with shallow breathing might suggest breathing difficulties but does not directly affirm inadequate ventilation without the accompanying changes in oxygen saturation. Elevated temperature with normal respiratory patterns does not indicate traumatic involvement affecting ventilation in this context.