Which type of breathing occurs during the initial stages after cardiac arrest?

The type of breathing that occurs during the initial stages after cardiac arrest is characterized by gasps, which are known as agonal gasps. These are irregular, ineffective gasping breaths that may occur when the brain is still trying to preserve some level of oxygenation despite a lack of effective circulation. Agonal gasps can vary in intensity and frequency and are a sign of critical distress, often seen immediately following cardiac arrest.

During a cardiac arrest, the body's physiological response may lead to the presence of these gasps as a last effort to ventilate the lungs. As circulation ceases, the brain can trigger these reflexive movements in an attempt to facilitate breathing, irrespective of whether they provide adequate oxygenation. Recognizing these gasps can be crucial for bystanders or first responders, as it indicates that emergency actions, such as calling for help and initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), are immediately necessary.

Kussmaul respiration typically occurs in metabolic acidosis and presents as deep, labored breathing. Apneustic respiration is characterized by prolonged inspiration followed by a pause before expiration and is usually associated with damage to specific brain areas. Biot respiration is characterized by groups of breaths of equal depth followed by periods of apnea and