What is a significant sign of respiratory distress?

Rapid breathing, also known as tachypnea, is indeed a significant sign of respiratory distress. When the body is struggling to get enough oxygen or is unable to eliminate carbon dioxide effectively, the respiratory rate increases in an attempt to compensate for the inadequate respiratory function. This can occur due to various conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, or other respiratory illnesses, indicating that the individual may be experiencing difficulty in breathing.

In situations of respiratory distress, rapid breathing often accompanies other signs such as increased heart rate or use of accessory muscles for breathing. Monitoring respiratory patterns is crucial in assessing a casualty's respiratory status, and rapid breathing serves as a clear indicator that further evaluation and immediate medical attention may be necessary to address the underlying cause.