What is defined as a complete stoppage of breathing?

The term that specifically describes a complete stoppage of breathing is respiratory arrest. This condition signifies that an individual is no longer able to take in air, which can lead to a critical lack of oxygen in the body and requires immediate medical intervention. Unlike respiratory failure, which may involve inadequate breathing but not a total cessation, respiratory arrest indicates that breathing has stopped entirely. This can be a result of various medical emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or severe airway obstruction, and it is crucial for emergency medical responders to recognize and address this situation promptly to restore normal breathing and prevent further complications.