Which of the following indicates that further airway intervention may be needed?

When evaluating a patient's airway status, the presence or absence of effective breathing is a critical factor in determining the need for further intervention. If a patient is apneic, meaning they are not breathing at all, yet still have a pulse, it indicates a significant compromise in their ability to ventilate adequately. Apnea can lead to hypoxia and carbon dioxide buildup, which are life-threatening conditions. This scenario typically necessitates immediate airway management, such as providing artificial ventilation, to ensure that the patient receives adequate oxygen and allows for carbon dioxide removal.

In contrast, if a patient is conscious and responsive, they are likely capable of maintaining their own airway, thus not immediately indicating the need for further intervention. Similarly, a patient who is breathing regularly demonstrates that their airway is functioning properly, and signs of anxiety, while they may require attention, do not inherently signal an airway emergency. Therefore, the situation where a patient is apneic with a pulse signifies the need for urgent airway intervention to prevent further deterioration.