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
13	2.0	2 Years	$14.95	1-2 Hrs	Compliant	Unlimited	Download/Print/Mail

Chapters13
CE Credits2.0
Validity2 Years
Cost$14.95
Duration1-2 Hrs
ECCCompliant
Exam AttemptsUnlimited
Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

Chapter 4: Breathing Emergencies

A breathing emergency is any serious problem that affects a person’s ability to breathe. It may range from shortness of breath to a complete inability to breathe, and it always requires immediate attention.

Breathing emergencies can be caused by:

Allergic reactions
Asthma
Choking
Chest injuries
Infections
Fear or anxiety

Other triggers may include:

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

Signs and Symptoms

Watch for:

Very fast or very slow breathing
Chest pain
Coughing
Noisy breathing (such as wheezing)
Confusion
Pale or bluish skin, lips, or fingertips
Panic or visible distress
Complaints of shortness of breath

Asthma

Asthma is a common cause of breathing emergencies, especially in children. Many people with asthma know their triggers and carry a rescue inhaler.

Common triggers include smoke, dust, pets, perfume, mold, exercise, stress, or sudden temperature changes.

First Aid Steps

Check the scene and make sure it is safe.
Ask the person if they have prescribed medication.
Help them access and use their inhaler or epinephrine auto-injector if needed.
Call 9-1-1 if:
- The person does not have medication
- Symptoms worsen
- Breathing becomes difficult or stops
Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck.
Keep the person calm and stay with them until help arrives.
If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR (or Hands-Only CPR if you are not trained in rescue breaths).