CEP Advanced Airway Management & Ventilation 2

Question 1

A patient in respiratory failure has a SpO2 of 82% despite high-flow oxygen via NRB mask. You attempt RSI but cannot visualize the cords. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Insert a supraglottic airway device

Answer

When intubation fails and oxygenation is inadequate, a supraglottic airway (LMA, King LT, i-gel) is the recommended rescue device before proceeding to a surgical airway.

Question 2

Which waveform capnography finding is MOST consistent with severe bronchospasm?

Accepted Answer

Shark-fin waveform with elevated plateau

Answer

A shark-fin (sloped plateau) capnography waveform indicates obstructive airway disease such as severe bronchospasm or COPD exacerbation.

Question 3

During BVM ventilation of an apneic adult, you notice the abdomen rising with each ventilation. What is the MOST likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Gastric inflation from excessive pressure

Answer

Abdominal rise during BVM ventilation indicates gastric insufflation caused by excessive ventilation pressure or volume exceeding the lower esophageal sphincter threshold.

Question 4

A 45-year-old male requires RSI. His BMI is 42. Which positioning strategy BEST optimizes laryngoscopy conditions?

Accepted Answer

Ramped position with ear aligned to sternal notch

Answer

The ramped or 'sniffing' position with the external auditory meatus level with the sternal notch improves laryngoscopic view in obese patients by aligning oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal axes.

Question 5

After RSI with succinylcholine and etomidate, you confirm ET tube placement via waveform capnography. The ETCO2 is 12 mmHg. What should you suspect?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary embolism or severely reduced cardiac output

Answer

A very low ETCO2 (under 15 mmHg) with confirmed tube placement suggests severe reduction in pulmonary blood flow, as seen in pulmonary embolism or low cardiac output states.

(CEP) Certified Emergency Paramedic Practice Test

(CEP) Certified Emergency Paramedic Practice Test

CEP Advanced Airway Management & Ventilation 2