Aim and intended learning outcomes <p>After reading this article, the nurse should be able to:</p> • <p>Describe the stages involved in oxygen delivery' to the tissues</p> • <p>Carry out a visual assessment of the patient’s respiratory status</p> • <p>Differentiate between normal and abnormal breath sounds</p> • <p>Discuss the principles and limitations of pulse oximetry</p> • <p>Describe the four types of acid-base imbalance</p>