What are the occasional, irregular breaths observed in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest called?

The occasional, irregular breaths observed in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest are known as agonal gasps. These gasps typically occur when the brain is attempting to maintain some level of function despite the heart having stopped, and they can be mistaken for adequate breathing. Agonal gasps are characterized by shallow, gasping breaths and may include brief periods of respiratory effort that do not effectively oxygenate the body.

Understanding that agonal gasps are a sign of a medical emergency is crucial for recognizing when to initiate CPR and provide appropriate interventions, as they indicate that the patient is experiencing severe distress. Recognizing these gasps can also inform the responder that the patient is in a critical state and emphasizes the need for immediate medical assistance.