What should a nurse instruct the parents of a child with asthma regarding recognizing signs of distress?

Recognizing signs of distress in a child with asthma is crucial for timely intervention. Audible wheezing is a clear indicator that the airways are constricted and that the child may be experiencing difficulty breathing. This sound occurs when air flows through narrowed airways, which can signify that an asthma attack is occurring or worsening. Parents should be encouraged to be attentive to this specific symptom since it can be a precursor to more severe respiratory distress.

While other signs such as increased respiratory rates, color changes in the skin, and monitoring activity levels are important in assessing the child’s overall condition, wheezing specifically points to respiratory compromise related to asthma. Being alert to wheezing allows parents to seek help promptly and possibly intervene before the situation escalates to a critical level.