Agonal respirations are characterized by which of the following?

Agonal respirations are characterized by weak and heavy gasping breaths. This type of breathing often occurs in patients who are in a critical state, such as during respiratory distress or cardiac arrest. These gasps are typically not effective for oxygenation and can be a sign that the body is struggling to maintain respiratory function. Agonal respirations are irregular, infrequent, and not truly indicative of functional breathing, which distinguishes them from normal patterns of respiration. Understanding this helps emergency responders recognize severe medical conditions and respond appropriately.

In contrast, quick, shallow breaths do not capture the gasping nature characteristic of agonal respirations, while normal rhythmic breaths and deep, calming breaths represent healthy and effective respiration patterns, which are not indicative of the critical state implied by agonal breathing.