OEC Airway Management & Respiratory Emergencies Flashcards

What is the preferred method to open the airway in an unresponsive patient with no suspected spinal injury?

Answer: Head-tilt chin-lift

The head-tilt chin-lift is the preferred method for opening the airway in an unresponsive patient without suspected spinal injury.

What is the normal respiratory rate range for an adult at rest?

Answer: 12–20 breaths/min

A normal adult respiratory rate is 12–20 breaths per minute at rest.

Which airway adjunct is inserted through the nostril to help maintain an open airway in a semi-conscious patient?

Answer: Nasopharyngeal airway (NPA)

A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) is inserted through the nostril to maintain airway patency and is better tolerated than an OPA in semi-conscious patients.

When is the jaw thrust maneuver preferred over the head-tilt chin-lift?

Answer: When spinal injury is suspected

The jaw thrust opens the airway with minimal head and neck movement, making it the preferred technique when spinal injury is suspected.

Which sign indicates complete airway obstruction in a conscious patient?

Answer: Silent cough with the universal choking sign

A silent cough combined with the universal choking sign (hands clutching the throat) indicates complete airway obstruction requiring immediate intervention.

What is the most common cause of airway obstruction in an unconscious patient?

Answer: The tongue falling back

In unconscious patients, loss of muscle tone causes the tongue to fall back against the posterior pharynx, making it the most common cause of airway obstruction.