What should an EMT do if a patient is in severe respiratory distress and unable to speak?

When a patient is in severe respiratory distress and unable to speak, performing a rapid assessment and administering a non-rebreather mask is the most appropriate course of action. This option addresses the immediate need for oxygenation, which is critical in such situations. A non-rebreather mask delivers a high concentration of oxygen, which can significantly improve the patient's oxygen saturation and relieve hypoxia.

The rapid assessment allows the EMT to quickly gather vital information about the patient's condition, including observing their respiratory effort, skin color, and level of consciousness. This enables the EMT to make informed decisions about further interventions and transport decisions.

In scenarios of severe respiratory distress, time is often of the essence, making it essential to provide immediate support to the airway and breathing before trying to obtain a detailed history or assess symptoms more thoroughly.