Which of the following is a complication of airway obstruction?

Respiratory distress is a direct consequence of airway obstruction and represents a critical complication that can arise in such situations. When the airway is obstructed, it impairs the ability to move air into and out of the lungs, leading to inadequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal. This can result in symptoms such as increased respiratory rate, effort, and potentially a feeling of shortness of breath. If the obstruction is not relieved, respiratory distress can progress to more severe hypoxemia (low oxygen levels) and can ultimately lead to respiratory failure.

The other options do not directly relate to the primary physiological impact of airway obstruction. For instance, hypotension may occur in various clinical conditions, but it is not specifically a result of airway obstruction. Electrolyte imbalance typically arises from different systemic issues, such as renal dysfunction or excessive fluid loss. A skin rash may indicate an allergic reaction or other dermatological conditions but is not a direct consequence of airway obstruction. Thus, respiratory distress stands out as the key complication associated with airway obstruction due to its immediate impact on breathing and oxygenation.