Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:
Mental statusreflects perfusion and oxygen delivery to thebrain, which is highly sensitive to hypoxia and hypercapnia. Even if respiratory rate and SpO₂ are normal, altered mental status suggests ineffective gas exchange or hypoperfusion.
Pulse oximetry may be falsely normal in CO poisoning or poor perfusion. Skin color is subjective and not as sensitive or specific as neurological status.
[References:, NREMT Assessment Standards – Airway & Neurological Assessment, AHA BLS Manual – Recognition of Effective Ventilation, Brady Emergency Care (13th ed.) – Patient Assessment and Respiratory Emergencies, , ]
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