What defines respiratory arrest?

Respiratory arrest is defined as a medical emergency that occurs when a person stops breathing. In this state, the body is no longer receiving the necessary oxygen it requires to function, which can lead to serious health consequences and requires immediate intervention. Recognizing respiratory arrest is critical as it helps lifeguards and first responders to act quickly and initiate appropriate emergency procedures, such as calling for help and beginning rescue breaths or CPR if necessary.

The other choices highlight conditions that do not directly correlate with respiratory arrest. A state of calm breathing indicates a healthy and normal respiratory function rather than a cessation of breath. Difficulty in walking pertains to mobility issues and does not specifically address breathing or respiratory functions. Coughing up blood, while potentially serious, refers to a different medical condition and is not synonymous with the absence of breathing. Understanding the clear definition of respiratory arrest is vital for recognizing and responding to such emergencies effectively.