Non-invasive monitoring of a patient in respiratory distress is typically performed with what tool?

Non-invasive monitoring of a patient in respiratory distress is most commonly performed with an electrocardiogram (ECG). The ECG provides valuable information about the heart's electrical activity, which is essential in assessing patients experiencing respiratory issues. In respiratory distress, it is crucial to monitor for any changes in heart rhythm that may occur due to hypoxia or stress on the cardiac system.

The ECG is non-invasive, making it a safe and efficient tool for continuous monitoring, especially in acute settings. This capability is significant because respiratory distress can lead to complications that affect the heart, such as arrhythmias.

While imaging techniques like CT scans, ultrasound, and X-ray machines do play roles in diagnosing respiratory conditions, they are typically not considered non-invasive monitoring tools in the same way that an ECG is for ongoing assessment during the management of patients with respiratory distress.