CRNA CRNA Airway Management

Question 1

According to the ASA Difficult Airway Algorithm, what is the first step after recognizing a 'cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate' (CICO) emergency?

Accepted Answer

Emergency surgical airway (cricothyrotomy)

Answer

In a CICO situation, the ASA algorithm mandates an immediate emergency invasive airway (cricothyrotomy) to establish oxygenation and prevent brain damage.

Question 2

Which Cormack-Lehane grade indicates the most difficult direct laryngoscopy, with only the posterior commissure or no laryngeal structures visible?

Accepted Answer

Grade III–IV

Answer

Cormack-Lehane Grades III (only epiglottis visible) and IV (no laryngeal structures visible) indicate the most difficult direct laryngoscopic views.

Question 3

What is the recommended preoxygenation target end-tidal O2 (EtO2) percentage before rapid sequence intubation (RSI)?

Accepted Answer

≥90%

Answer

Preoxygenation to EtO2 ≥90% (replacing nitrogen with oxygen in the FRC) provides maximum apneic reserve time during RSI.

Question 4

A patient with epiglottitis requires intubation. Which approach is preferred to avoid complete airway obstruction?

Accepted Answer

Awake fiberoptic intubation

Answer

Awake fiberoptic intubation preserves spontaneous ventilation and allows continuous assessment of the airway, preventing loss of the airway during instrumentation.

Question 5

What is the primary advantage of video laryngoscopy over direct laryngoscopy for difficult airway management?

Accepted Answer

Improved glottic visualization without requiring line-of-sight alignment

Answer

Video laryngoscopy uses an angulated blade with a camera, allowing visualization of the glottis without requiring oral-pharyngeal-laryngeal axis alignment.

CRNA - Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Practice Test

CRNA - Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Practice Test

CRNA CRNA Airway Management