Online First Aid Course

Our CPR/AED courses include Adult, Child and Infant techniques. Additionally, our CPR certification course includes training on the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The CPR/AED certification is valid for 2 years.

Chapter 4: Breathing Emergencies

Defined:

A breathing emergency (considered to be a medical emergency) is any respiratory problem that can threaten a person’s life. It can range from not being able to take a breath to not being able to breathe at all.

Causes:

There are many different causes that can lead to a breathing emergency. Some of these include:

Allergic reactions

Asthma

Chest injury or infection

Choking

Fear, pain or anxiety

Fumes inhalation

Heart attack

Heart disease or heart failure

Infection (i.e., pneumonia), collapsed or punctured lungs

Injury to the head, neck or chest

Smoking

Signs and Symptoms:

Breathing is very rapid or very slow

Chest pain

Confused and aggressive behavior

Cough

Noisy breathing (wheezing or whistling sounds)

Pale or blue face, lips and fingers

Shortness of breath or troubled breathing

Common Emergency Example(s):

Asthma:

Asthma is the third highest cause of hospitalization amongst those under the age of 15. Many people that have this medical condition are aware of it and carry an inhaler for use in an emergency.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by many things, such as:

Plants and mold
Perfume
Dust, smoke, and air pollution
Fear, anxiety and strong emotional display
Medications
Pets, animal fur, feathers, carpets, rugs
Rapid changing temperatures
Strenuous exercise

First Aid Actions / Treatment:

1.	Assess the scene and check for your safety.
2.	Ask the person if he/she has prescribed medication. Get the medicine for the person if he/she cannot access it. Help the person utilize an inhaler or epi-pen if he/she has one.
3.	Call 9-1-1 if the person does not have medicine or the breathing emergency worsens.
4.	Loosen any tight clothing (especially around the neck).
5.	Try to keep the person calm, and stay with the person until advanced medical help arrives.
6.	If necessary, provide CPR. If you do not know how, give Hands-Only CPR.

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Course: First Aid Course