What occurs during respiratory arrest?

During respiratory arrest, the primary event is that breathing stops completely, which leads to a critical lack of oxygen in the body. This cessation of normal respiratory function means that the lungs are not bringing in oxygen necessary for the body's metabolic processes, and carbon dioxide is not being expelled efficiently. As a result, this oxygen deficiency can quickly lead to serious complications: tissues and organs do not receive the oxygen they require to function, which can cause organ damage and, if not addressed swiftly, can ultimately lead to cardiac arrest.

In this situation, unless ventilation is restored through methods such as rescue breathing or mechanical ventilation, the lack of oxygen will culminate in serious physiological consequences. Understanding this process is vital for effective intervention during an emergency.