What might the immediate effects of smoke inhalation include?

The immediate effects of smoke inhalation primarily impact the respiratory system due to the inhalation of harmful chemicals, irritants, and particulate matter present in smoke. Respiratory distress can manifest as difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing, which indicates that the airways are compromised. Additionally, inhaling smoke can impair judgment due to the lack of oxygen and the presence of toxic substances that affect brain function, leading to confusion or disorientation.

While other options may represent potential health issues related to smoke exposure, they do not capture the immediate dangers associated with inhaling smoke. For example, memory loss and confusion can occur, but they are often secondary effects related to oxygen deprivation rather than the first immediate response. Symptoms like dry skin and eye irritation may arise from environmental factors, but they are not direct consequences of smoke inhalation. Cardiac arrest and loss of consciousness are severe outcomes typically associated with prolonged exposure or other underlying health issues rather than immediate effects. Therefore, the option focusing on respiratory distress and impaired judgment aligns most accurately with the known immediate physiological responses to smoke inhalation.