What it means
A state of being in trouble or pain. Respiratory distress means struggling to breathe; fetal distress means the unborn baby is not getting enough oxygen; emotional distress is strong worry, fear or sadness. Moral distress is what a nurse feels when they know the right thing to do but cannot do it.
For the nurse
Respiratory distress is an emergency: stay with the client, raise the head of the bed, give oxygen as ordered and call for help.
At a glance
| Spanish | angustia, sufrimiento |
|---|---|
| Also written | distressed, distressing |
Related terms
respiratory distress syndrome
A breathing disorder of newborns, mostly premature babies, whose lungs do not yet make enough surfactant.
coping
The thoughts and actions a person uses to manage stress, problems and strong emotions.
anxiety
A feeling of worry, fear or unease about something that may happen, often with physical signs such as a racing heart.