when a person is unconscious and not breathing but has a pulse, he or she is in respiratory arrest. true or false
False. When a person is unconscious and not breathing but has a pulse, they are in cardiac arrest, not respiratory arrest.
False. When a person is unconscious and not breathing, but still has a pulse, it is referred to as cardiac arrest, not respiratory arrest. In cardiac arrest, the heart has stopped pumping blood effectively, which can lead to a lack of oxygen in the body. Immediate medical attention, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), is necessary in these situations.
This statement is false. When a person is unconscious and not breathing but still has a pulse, it is called cardiac arrest, not respiratory arrest.
To determine whether a person is in respiratory or cardiac arrest, you can follow these steps:
1. Assess Responsiveness: First, try to wake the person up by shaking their shoulders and asking if they are okay. If they don't respond, they may be unconscious.
2. Check Breathing: Next, open their airway by tilting their head back and lifting their chin. Look, listen, and feel for any signs of breathing for about 5-10 seconds. If there is no breathing or only gasping, the person is not breathing normally.
3. Check Pulse: While still keeping the person's airway open, locate the carotid artery on the side of their neck and gently press your fingers against it to feel for a pulse. If there is a pulse, it means their heart is beating, and they are in cardiac arrest. If there is no pulse, it could indicate cardiac or respiratory arrest.
In summary, if a person is unconscious and not breathing but still has a pulse, it means they are in cardiac arrest, not respiratory arrest.