Which of the following is a key sign to monitor for suspected airway obstruction?

Monitoring for suspected airway obstruction is critical in assessing a patient's respiratory status. Difficulty breathing, or dyspnea, is a key sign to watch for, as it indicates that the airflow is partially or completely compromised. When a person experiences difficulty breathing, the body is signaling that there is an issue with the airway that could become life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Coughing fits may be present, but they can occur for various reasons, not all of which indicate an airway obstruction. Normal vocalization suggests that the patient can still talk and has a clear airway, which contradicts the concept of obstructed breathing. A stable mental state may not indicate anything about the airway's condition itself, as a person can be mentally stable even if they are struggling to breathe due to an obstructed airway, underscoring the importance of monitoring respiratory cues. Thus, difficulty breathing stands out as the most significant indicator of a potential airway obstruction that needs immediate attention.