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Online First Aid Course

Learn how to provide essential care before emergency responders arrive with our 100% Online First Aid Course. Receive instant certification valid for 2 years, plus unlimited quiz retakes.

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Chapters CE Credits Validity Cost Duration ECC Exam Attempts Wallet Card
24 6.0 2 Years $36.95 2-3 Hrs Compliant Unlimited Download/Print/Mail
  • Chapters24
  • CE Credits6.0
  • Validity2 Years
  • Cost$36.95
  • Duration2-3 Hrs
  • ECCCompliant
  • Exam AttemptsUnlimited
  • Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

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Chapter 15: Breathing Emergencies

A breathing emergency is any serious issue that affects a person’s ability to breathe. It can be as mild as shortness of breath or as severe as complete inability to breathe, and always requires immediate attention.

There are many causes that may lead to a breathing emergency, such as

  • Allergic reactions
  • Asthma
  • Choking
  • Chest injuries
  • Infections
  • Fear and anxiety

Other common triggers include

  • Inhaling fumes
  • Heart-related conditions
  • Trauma to the head, neck, or chest
  • Smoking

Signs to look for include very fast or slow breathing, chest pain, coughing, confusion, noisy breathing (like wheezing), or a pale or blue face, lips, or fingers. The person may also seem panicked or complain of shortness of breath.

One common example is asthma. It’s a major cause of hospitalization, especially among children. People with asthma usually know their triggers and often carry an inhaler. Triggers can include things like smoke, dust, pets, perfume, mold, exercise, stress, or sudden temperature changes.

online-cpr-course-breathing-emergencies

First Aid Steps

  • Assess the scene and make sure it’s safe to help.
  • Ask if the person has any prescribed medication. If they do and can’t reach it, help them access it.
  • Assist them in using an inhaler or epinephrine auto-injector if needed.
  • Call 9-1-1 if the person doesn’t have medication or if symptoms get worse.
  • Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck.
  • Try to keep the person calm and stay with them until emergency help arrives.
  • If the person becomes unresponsive, begin Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) or give Hands-Only CPR if you’re not trained in full CPR.

This section of your Online First Aid Course prepares you to recognize and respond to breathing emergencies with clarity and care.