Acute respiratory failure

Patients should be made aware that immediate medical evaluation of abnormal respiratory symptoms is important. In the first weeks after recovery, this includes seeking evaluation for fever or a productive cough.

Patients should be educated about any of their underlying conditions that may lead to respiratory failure. For example, asthmatic patients should be familiar with their disease, be compliant with their regular medications, and know to seek medical attention when symptoms cannot be controlled. Maintaining influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations is also extremely important for those with conditions that predispose to respiratory disease or disorders.