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TL;DR

Respiratory Emergencies: Asthma, COPD, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and pneumothorax causing breathing difficulty.

By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-02

Respiratory Emergencies

NREMT EMTNREMT PARAMEDIC

Definition

Asthma, COPD, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, and pneumothorax causing breathing difficulty.

Calculation Methods

Dosage calculations related to respiratory emergencies in EMS:

Pediatric dosing: always calculate by weight (mg/kg). Use Broselow tape if weight is unknown.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Protocol steps for respiratory emergencies:

Stroke recognition: Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (facial droop, arm drift, speech) then last known well time then transport to stroke center

Equipment & Tools

Equipment used in respiratory emergencies assessment and treatment:

BVM
Bag-valve-mask for manual ventilation. Available sizes: Adult (1500mL), Pediatric (500mL), Infant (250mL)
AED
Automated external defibrillator for VF/pVT. Available sizes: Adult pads (over 8yo or 25kg), Pediatric pads (under 8yo or 25kg)
Pulse oximeter
Measures SpO2 via infrared absorption through capillary bed. Available sizes: Finger clip, Earlobe, Pediatric wrap

Workplace Applications

In daily practice, respiratory emergencies is applied consistently according to facility protocols and current evidence-based guidelines. Competency is maintained through annual skills validation, continuing education, and quality improvement participation.

Safety Considerations

Field safety for respiratory emergencies includes scene assessment before patient contact. Ensure BSI (body substance isolation) precautions are in place. PPE selection depends on the mechanism and suspected pathogens. Gloves are the minimum; add mask and eye protection for splash risk, N95 for airborne pathogens.

Never approach a scene involving hazardous materials, violence, or structural instability without proper resources and clearance from incident command.

Exam Focus Areas

On the Nremt Emt, Nremt Paramedic exam(s), questions about respiratory emergencies typically test:

  1. Recognition of signs and symptoms requiring immediate intervention
  2. Correct medication selection, dosing, and route of administration
  3. Assessment findings that differentiate between similar presentations

Why It Matters

Respiratory emergency assessment and BLS interventions tested on EMT exam.

Related Terms

Airway ManagementOxygen TherapyPulse Oximetry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What vital signs should be monitored when assessing respiratory emergencies?▼
For respiratory emergencies: temperature: 97.8-99.1 F (36.5-37.3 C). SpO2: 95-100%. GCS: 15 is normal, under 8 = severe TBI. Reassess every 5 minutes for unstable patients.
What protocol applies to respiratory emergencies in prehospital care?▼
For respiratory emergencies: Stroke recognition: Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (facial droop, arm drift, speech) then last known well time then transport to stroke center
What equipment is needed for managing respiratory emergencies in the field?▼
For respiratory emergencies: Waveform capnograph provides Measures end-tidal CO2 continuously with waveform display. Pulse oximeter provides Measures SpO2 via infrared absorption through capillary bed. BVM provides Bag-valve-mask for manual ventilation.