What are agonal respirations often characterized by?

Agonal respirations are typically characterized by gasping and labored breathing patterns along with accompanying vocalizations. This type of breathing often occurs in the context of severe physiological distress, such as during a cardiac arrest or significant respiratory failure. The sound and appearance of these respirations can be quite abnormal and erratic, which distinguishes them from typical respiratory patterns.

In many cases, agonal respirations are an indication of a person nearing death or in a state of critical medical emergency. Recognizing these respirations is crucial for first responders, as they signal the need for immediate medical intervention, such as CPR or other advanced life support measures. The other choices relate to more typical breathing patterns, which do not align with the physiological state indicated by agonal respirations.