What is the recommended follow-up after a patient experiences respiratory distress following a surgery?

The recommended follow-up after a patient experiences respiratory distress following surgery is to call for the rapid response team. This action is correct because respiratory distress can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate evaluation and intervention.

When a patient is in respiratory distress, their airway could be compromised, leading to inadequate oxygenation and ventilation. Requesting assistance from a rapid response team ensures that a trained team is mobilized to assess the patient quickly, implement advanced airway management if needed, and initiate appropriate treatments to stabilize the patient's condition. This is crucial in preventing further deterioration and addressing any underlying issues that may have caused the distress.

Other interventions like increasing oxygen levels or monitoring vital signs can be important but are typically part of the initial care done while waiting for the rapid response team. Administering a sedative could worsen respiratory depression and is not an appropriate immediate response in the context of respiratory distress. Thus, activating the rapid response team is the most critical first step to ensure comprehensive and timely care for the patient in distress.