What is the recommended action when a patient shows signs of respiratory distress?

When a patient exhibits signs of respiratory distress, the most appropriate action is to call for help immediately. This action is critical because respiratory distress can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation. Calling for assistance ensures that a trained healthcare team responds promptly to evaluate the patient, potentially administer emergency interventions, and provide the necessary breathing support.

While other options might seem helpful, they do not effectively address the immediate risk posed by respiratory distress. For instance, administering sedatives could suppress the respiratory drive, worsening the patient's condition. Limiting movement may help in some situations, but it does not directly provide relief or support for the patient's breathing difficulties. Encouraging deep breathing can be beneficial in certain contexts but may not be appropriate if the patient is already struggling to breathe, as it could exacerbate anxiety and exacerbate the situation. Hence, the swift action of calling for help is the best course of action to ensure patient safety and timely intervention.