In which protocol would you find asthma diagnostic criteria?

In the context of the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS), asthma diagnostic criteria are specifically addressed within the protocol related to breathing difficulties, which encompasses conditions such as asthma. This protocol is designed to aid dispatchers in identifying respiratory issues and distinguishing between various potential causes of breathing distress. Asthma is characterized by symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty in breathing, all of which can manifest in emergency situations.

The protocol provides detailed guidelines for evaluating the patient's condition, including assessing the severity of their symptoms and determining if they require immediate medical assistance. This is crucial for ensuring that the appropriate resources are dispatched quickly, particularly in cases where airway management may be necessary.

Other protocols such as those dealing with cardiac emergencies, allergy responses, and neurological assessments focus on entirely different clinical scenarios. While these may have overlapping respiratory concerns, they do not specifically include criteria for diagnosing or managing asthma incidents. Thus, the protocol governing breathing difficulties is the most suitable for addressing asthma.