Which two assessments are commonly used for evaluating respiratory function?

Auscultation of lung sounds and pulse oximetry are essential assessments for evaluating respiratory function. Auscultation of lung sounds allows the nurse to listen for various breath sounds, such as wheezing, crackles, or diminished breath sounds, which can indicate different respiratory conditions or abnormalities. This hands-on assessment provides valuable information about airway patency and the overall function of the lungs.

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive method that measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood. This assessment helps determine how well oxygen is being transported to the tissues and can indicate respiratory problems, such as hypoxemia or impaired gas exchange. By combining these two assessments, the healthcare provider can gain a comprehensive view of a patient's respiratory status.

Other options include assessments that are not as directly related to respiratory function. For instance, blood pressure and temperature do not provide specific insights into respiratory efficiency or how well a patient is ventilating and oxygenating their blood. Similarly, while respiratory rate and heart rate can offer some information, they do not directly assess lung function or the effectiveness of oxygen transport as well as auscultation and pulse oximetry do.