General
agonal
What does agonal mean?
Clinical/slang descriptor for the terminal state — e.g. 'agonal breathing,' the ineffective gasps seen near death or in cardiac arrest.
"Only agonal gasps now — start compressions."
Origin
From Greek 'agon' (struggle); clinical term used colloquially.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'agonal' mean?
It describes the terminal, dying state, most often 'agonal breathing' — the ineffective gasps seen near death or during cardiac arrest.
Is agonal breathing normal breathing?
No. Agonal gasps are not effective breaths; they signal a very sick or arresting patient and typically prompt starting CPR.
Where does the word come from?
It derives from the Greek 'agon', meaning struggle. It is a clinical term also used colloquially by staff.
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