For a patient with COPD who presents with labored, shallow breathing and fatigue, what should the EMT do next?

In the context of a patient with COPD experiencing labored, shallow breathing and fatigue, the most appropriate action is to assist breathing with a bag-mask device. Patients with COPD often have compromised respiratory function, and simply providing oxygen may not be sufficient to address the underlying difficulty in breathing.

By using a bag-mask device, the EMT can ensure that the patient receives adequate tidal volume with each breath, which is essential when the patient is unable to breathe effectively on their own. This method provides positive pressure ventilation, helping to reduce the work of breathing and allowing for better oxygenation of the patient.

While high-flow oxygen and other methods may provide supplemental oxygen, they do not directly assist in the mechanical aspect of breathing. Given the patient's labored breathing and fatigue, support through assisted ventilation is crucial in stabilizing their condition and improving their respiratory status.