Which protocol should be used if someone is having difficulty breathing?

The appropriate protocol to use if someone is experiencing difficulty breathing is Protocol 6, which is focused specifically on breathing problems. This protocol encompasses a wide range of respiratory distress situations, allowing the dispatcher to gather pertinent information, assess the severity of the symptoms, and provide appropriate instructions while ensuring that the situation is handled with urgency.

Breathing problems can arise from various causes, including infections, anxiety, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions that affect the airway and lung function. Protocol 6 is designed to address these scenarios effectively, ensuring that the dispatcher can guide the caller through critical steps, such as calming the individual, checking for obstructions, and managing the situation until emergency services arrive.

While other protocols mentioned may relate to respiratory issues, they are either more specific or cover different medical situations. For instance, Protocol 11, focused on breathing issues, may also apply but is less detailed than Protocol 6 when addressing general breathing problems. Protocol 21 about allergic reactions and Protocol 26 regarding asthma attacks cover specific conditions rather than the broader category of breathing difficulty, making them less suitable for the general scenario described in the question.