What is a primary finding that necessitates immediate medical attention?

A respiratory rate of less than 19 breaths per minute can indicate a potential respiratory issue that requires immediate medical attention. Normal respiratory rates typically range from 12 to 20 breaths per minute for adults. A rate outside of this range, particularly one that is too low, may suggest inadequate ventilation or respiratory distress, which could lead to insufficient oxygen supply to vital organs. Quick intervention is critical in such scenarios to prevent serious complications.

In contrast, stable vital signs generally indicate that a patient is not in immediate danger and does not require urgent medical attention. If a patient feels well and presents minor injuries like cuts and bruises, these conditions are typically manageable and do not pose an immediate threat to life or health, thus they do not necessitate urgent medical care.