What is the first step to take with a conscious patient who has an increased breathing rate?

Assessing the regularity and quality of breathing is crucial as the first step with a conscious patient exhibiting an increased breathing rate. This assessment provides valuable information regarding the patient's overall respiratory status and helps to identify whether the increased rate is due to anxiety, pain, a respiratory condition, or another underlying issue. By determining the quality of the breaths—such as whether they are deep or shallow—healthcare professionals can gauge the effectiveness of the patient's ventilation and make informed decisions about subsequent interventions.

Conducting this assessment also helps to prioritize treatment options based on the patient's needs. If the breathing is irregular or labored, for example, it may indicate that the patient requires immediate support or oxygen, but if the breaths are regular and adequate, the focus may shift to addressing the cause of the increased respiratory rate rather than initiating emergency measures. Thus, assessing breathing patterns is foundational and guides the approach to care.