What is a sign of inadequate breathing?

Study for the Denver Health EMT Practice Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with helpful hints and explanations. Get set to ace your exam!

Wheezing is a sign of inadequate breathing because it indicates that the airways are narrowed or obstructed, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs effectively. This sound is often associated with conditions like asthma, bronchospasm, or other respiratory issues where the airway is constricted. When breathing is inadequate, the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide is compromised, potentially leading to respiratory distress. Recognizing wheezing as a sign of inadequate breathing prompts the need for immediate assessment and intervention to ensure the patient receives the appropriate care to restore adequate ventilation.

In contrast, elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate can be responses to various conditions, including anxiety or stress, rather than directly indicating inadequate breathing. A dry cough may be present in many respiratory conditions but does not necessarily signify inadequate breathing specifically.

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