Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

What should be done when a patient is in respiratory failure and lacks normal breathing?

1. Take a break before resuming care

2. Administer a high-flow oxygen mask

3. Start CPR immediately if pulse is absent

4. Position the patient upright only

The correct answer is: Start CPR immediately if pulse is absent

When a patient is in respiratory failure and demonstrates a lack of normal breathing, it is critical to take immediate action to preserve life. Initiating CPR is essential if the patient is also found to have no pulse, as cardiac arrest can rapidly follow respiratory failure. The primary focus in such a scenario is to ensure that oxygenated blood is circulated to vital organs, especially the heart and brain, to prevent irreversible damage or death. In cases of respiratory failure, the body is not getting enough oxygen, and vital functions may be compromised. Starting CPR involves chest compressions and, potentially, rescue breaths if the rescuer is trained. This intervention addresses the urgent need to restore heart function and maintain oxygen supply to the body until emergency medical services can take over. Applying other options, like administering high-flow oxygen, may be appropriate in some situations of respiratory distress but is not sufficient if the patient's heart has stopped. Positioning the patient upright may aid in some respiratory issues but does not effectively address the life-threatening condition if there is no pulse. Taking a break before resuming care is not appropriate, as every moment is critical in a respiratory emergency.