CEP Advanced Airway Management & Ventilation 5

Question 1

A patient with a known history of angioedema from ACE inhibitor use presents with rapidly progressing oropharyngeal swelling. Which airway approach is MOST prudent?

Accepted Answer

Attempt RSI with video laryngoscopy and have surgical airway immediately available

Answer

ACE inhibitor angioedema can rapidly obliterate the airway; RSI with video laryngoscopy should be performed early while surgical airway is prepared as a backup given the potential for complete airway loss.

Question 2

When performing a surgical cricothyrotomy, the incision is made through which structure?

Accepted Answer

Cricothyroid membrane

Answer

The cricothyroid membrane, located between the thyroid cartilage superiorly and the cricoid cartilage inferiorly, is the target for emergency surgical cricothyrotomy due to its superficial, avascular midline position.

Question 3

Post-intubation, a mechanically ventilated patient has rising PaCO2 despite a respiratory rate of 16. Which ventilator change would BEST address this?

Accepted Answer

Increase tidal volume from 450 mL to 550 mL

Answer

Rising PaCO2 indicates inadequate minute ventilation; increasing tidal volume (within lung-protective limits) increases alveolar ventilation and CO2 elimination.

Question 4

Which of the following is the MOST reliable pre-hospital method to confirm endotracheal tube placement?

Accepted Answer

Continuous waveform capnography

Answer

Continuous waveform capnography is the gold standard for confirming and monitoring endotracheal tube placement, as it requires pulmonary blood flow to produce CO2 at the tube tip.

Question 5

A patient with epiglottitis is in the 'tripod position' with audible stridor. You should:

Accepted Answer

Allow the patient to maintain their position of comfort while preparing for controlled intubation

Answer

Epiglottitis patients should be kept in their position of comfort (upright, tripod) as any manipulation or forced repositioning can precipitate complete airway obstruction; prepare for controlled intubation.

(CEP) Certified Emergency Paramedic Practice Test

(CEP) Certified Emergency Paramedic Practice Test

CEP Advanced Airway Management & Ventilation 5