Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam 2025 - Free BLS Practice Questions and Study Guide

Irregular, gasping breaths are classified as agonal breathing, which often indicates a critical and life-threatening situation. Agonal breathing is not an effective form of ventilation; rather, it is a reflexive movement that may occur when the brain is struggling to receive adequate oxygen. This type of breathing can be seen in individuals who are experiencing cardiac arrest or have suffered a severe medical emergency and often appears as sporadic, shallow gasps. Recognizing agonal breathing is crucial, as it serves as a significant sign that immediate medical intervention is required to restore effective breathing and circulation.

Normal breathing is characterized by a regular rhythm and depth, while fast and deep breathing might suggest hyperventilation or exertion, and labored breathing refers to difficult or strenuous effort to breathe but doesn't convey the same urgency as agonal breathing. This distinction is essential for understanding the critical signs that necessitate immediate action in emergency situations.