Paramedics Exam Airway Management 2

Question 1

A patient has a suspected cervical spine injury and requires airway management. Which technique is most appropriate for initial airway opening?

Accepted Answer

Jaw thrust maneuver

Answer

The jaw thrust maneuver opens the airway without extending the cervical spine, making it the preferred technique when spinal injury is suspected.

Question 2

When performing endotracheal intubation, the cuff should be inflated to what pressure range?

Accepted Answer

20-30 cmH2O

Answer

ETT cuff pressure of 20-30 cmH2O seals the airway without compromising tracheal mucosal perfusion.

Question 3

Which waveform on capnography indicates correct endotracheal tube placement?

Accepted Answer

Square waveform with EtCO2 35-45 mmHg

Answer

A square capnography waveform with EtCO2 between 35-45 mmHg confirms tracheal placement with normal ventilation.

Question 4

A patient develops stridor after a bee sting and has increasing respiratory distress. What is the FIRST priority airway intervention?

Accepted Answer

Early endotracheal intubation before swelling worsens

Answer

Anaphylaxis-induced angioedema progresses rapidly; early intubation is critical before swelling makes the procedure impossible.

Question 5

What does a colorimetric CO2 detector turning YELLOW indicate after endotracheal intubation?

Accepted Answer

Tracheal intubation confirmed

Answer

Yellow color on a colorimetric detector indicates the presence of CO2, confirming tracheal (not esophageal) placement.

Paramedics Exam Practice Test