Which sign could indicate a respiratory complication in a child with sickle cell disease?

Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, can be a significant indicator of respiratory complications in a child with sickle cell disease. This condition can lead to complications such as acute chest syndrome, which is characterized by respiratory symptoms including increased respiratory rate. In children with sickle cell disease, factors such as sickling of red blood cells can cause problems in the lungs, leading to hypoxia and the need for increased respiratory effort, thus resulting in tachypnea.

Other vital signs, like stable pulse, normal blood pressure, and oxygen saturation of 95% on room air, may not necessarily suggest a respiratory complication. Normal blood pressure indicates that the cardiovascular system is functioning adequately at that moment, while stable pulse often reflects stable heart health. An oxygen saturation of 95% can be considered acceptable in some scenarios; however, it does not fully rule out a respiratory issue if other symptoms are present. Therefore, tachypnea is more indicative of respiratory distress and warrants further investigation in this patient population.