What does the term "Kussmaul's breathing" refer to?

Kussmaul's breathing specifically refers to deep, labored breaths that are often rapid. This type of breathing is typically associated with metabolic acidosis, particularly in conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. The body attempts to compensate for the acidosis by exhaling more carbon dioxide, leading to this distinctive breathing pattern.

While it may seem that the term could refer to other types of breathing patterns, the key characteristics of Kussmaul's breathing involve both the depth and the effort put into each breath, distinguishing it from other breathing abnormalities. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for EMTs as it helps in identifying underlying metabolic conditions that may require immediate medical intervention.