Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Upon noting a semiconscious 22-year-old female's respirations at 16 breaths/min, what should you assess next?

1. Position of the patient

2. Pulse rate

3. Regularity and depth of breathing

4. Skin color

The correct answer is: Regularity and depth of breathing

When assessing a semiconscious patient, evaluating the regularity and depth of breathing is critical. The rate of 16 breaths per minute is within the normal range, so examining the quality of the respirations provides more valuable information about the patient's respiratory status. Regularity can indicate whether the breathing is consistent or if there are any irregularities that may signal distress or other underlying issues. Depth is equally important, as it reveals whether the patient is taking adequate breaths to maintain oxygenation. Shallow or labored breathing could indicate a significant problem even if the rate appears normal. Assessing breathing in terms of both regularity and depth is vital for determining if immediate interventions, such as supplemental oxygen or airway management, are necessary to support the patient's breathing adequately, especially in someone who is semiconscious and may be at risk for respiratory compromise.