What symptom of respiratory distress is characterized by rapid breathing?

Tachypnea is characterized by rapid breathing, which occurs when a person experiences increased respiratory rates. This can happen due to various reasons, such as anxiety, fever, or underlying medical conditions affecting the respiratory system. In the context of respiratory distress, tachypnea serves as a compensatory mechanism, indicating that the body is trying to increase oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion due to inadequate breathing or other respiratory challenges. Recognizing tachypnea is essential for emergency medical dispatchers, as it helps in assessing the severity of a patient's respiratory status and determining the appropriate response needed. Understanding this symptom allows dispatchers to prioritize calls and provide accurate information to responding medical teams.