What are agonal breaths?

Agonal breaths are characterized as isolated or infrequent gasps that may occur in a person who is in a state of respiratory distress or has suffered a cardiac arrest. These breaths are not effective for maintaining proper oxygenation and often present as an irregular, gasping pattern rather than coordinated, purposeful breathing.

In a clinical setting, it's crucial to recognize agonal breaths because they indicate that the individual is likely not breathing adequately and requires immediate intervention, such as CPR or advanced airway management. Understanding the distinction between agonal breaths and other types of breathing patterns aids healthcare providers in assessing a patient’s condition and taking appropriate action quickly.