American Lifeguard Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Signs of respiratory distress can be assessed through various physical indicators visible on the individual's body. Flushed, pale, ashen, or bluish skin reflects the body’s inadequate oxygen supply and inability to properly oxygenate blood. These color changes suggest that the individual is in respiratory distress because they signify a lack of sufficient oxygen (cyanosis, particularly, can appear bluish), and an increased effort to breathe can lead to changes in skin coloration.

While excessive sweating and shivering, rapid heart rate, and complaints of stomach cramps can be symptoms of other medical conditions, they are not specific indicators of respiratory distress. Recognizing skin color changes as a part of vital signs is crucial for lifeguards and first responders, as it helps to quickly assess the severity of the individual’s condition and initiate the appropriate emergency response necessary for respiratory issues.