Agonal sounds is an official medical term for what would unscientifically be called the "death rattle".
While the sound is entirely different in both timing and form with each person and situation, there is a distinct commonality acknowledged by those who are exposed to it regularly.
There are both academic and professional conversations on what actions if any should be attempted once the sound has been heard.
Is not normal breathing. It is a sign of cardiac arrest in someone who doesn't respond
Yes
Tip the head to open the airway. Check for signs of life (look, listen, feel for breathing & movement). Since agonal gasps fails the breathing criteria, you would immediately begin CPR for an adult.
Since gasps (agonal breathing) will not sustain life, for an adult go immediately to CPR.
open the airway and give two breath/check the victim pulse
CPR for an adult
Tip the head to open the airway. If still agonal breathing, give 2 breaths & start CPR.
The correct spelling is agonal, and it is a term used to describe the respiratory rate and depth of a patient that is near death. It is characterized by slowing rate that becomes labored as the patient gasps. aka gulpy breathing. Agonal can also be used to describe a similar cardiac rhythm.
If the victim is breathing normally, but not responding you should
no breath sounds
Since agonal breathing will not support life, when agonal breathing occurs it is the same as no breathing; so immediately proceed with care.
Open the airway and check for breathing (signs of life; look, listen & feel); if not breathing give two breaths then start CPR.
Agonal breathing will not support life; rescue breathing (or CPR if no pulse) is required.