Which vital sign should be monitored closely for patients with respiratory issues?

Monitoring pulse oximetry is essential for patients with respiratory issues because it provides a direct measurement of oxygen saturation in the blood. This vital sign is crucial as it indicates how well oxygen is being transported throughout the body, which is particularly important in assessing respiratory function.

In conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or pneumonia, maintaining adequate oxygen saturation is vital for tissue perfusion and overall health. If oxygen levels drop below a certain threshold, it can lead to hypoxemia, which may necessitate immediate medical intervention, such as supplemental oxygen or adjustments to treatment plans.

While temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate can provide valuable information about a patient's overall condition, they do not specifically measure oxygenation status. Thus, for respiratory issues, closely monitoring pulse oximetry is critical to ensure patients are receiving sufficient oxygen and to detect any deterioration in their respiratory function promptly.