A drowsy 72-year-old female complains of difficulty breathing.

The patient’s excessively high respiratory rate (RR 50), hypoxia (SpO₂ 89%), and decreased mental status (drowsiness) indicate respiratory failure, which is the inability to maintain oxygenation or ventilation.

Respiratory distress: Increased effort but adequate compensation

Respiratory arrest: Complete absence of breathing

Respiratory alkalosis: Possible early finding, but not a condition diagnosis

This patient is tiring and losing the ability to ventilate effectively — a hallmark of failure.