Cough Reflex Test (CRT) Practice

Increased work of breathing is a significant indicator of diaphragmatic fatigue. When the diaphragm, the primary muscle involved in respiration, becomes fatigued, the effort required to breathe increases. This is often observed through signs such as the patient using accessory muscles, taking faster and shallower breaths, or showing signs of distress while breathing. In contrast, effective breathing mechanics would suggest that the patient’s respiratory muscles are functioning well, and high oxygen saturation implies that the patient is getting adequate oxygenation, which typically would not be associated with fatigue. Normal respiratory depth indicates that the breathing pattern is regular and effective, which wouldn't suggest diaphragmatic fatigue either. Thus, increased work of breathing is the key sign pointing to potential inefficiency or fatigue of the respiratory muscles, particularly the diaphragm.