PHTLS Airway and Ventilation 5

Question 1

In a pediatric trauma patient, which anatomical difference increases the risk of airway obstruction compared to adults?

Accepted Answer

Proportionally larger tongue and more anterior, cephalad larynx

Answer

Children have a proportionally larger tongue, more anterior and superior larynx, and a floppy epiglottis, all increasing obstruction risk.

Question 2

What is the appropriate oxygen delivery device for a spontaneously breathing, conscious trauma patient with suspected hypoxia in the prehospital setting?

Accepted Answer

Non-rebreather mask at 15 L/min

Answer

A non-rebreather mask at 15 L/min delivers the highest available FiO2 (~0.85-0.90) for spontaneously breathing trauma patients needing supplemental oxygen.

Question 3

A trauma patient is intubated and ETCO2 waveform shows a sudden drop to near zero. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Esophageal intubation or ET tube displacement

Answer

Loss of ETCO2 waveform after a previously confirmed tube position most commonly indicates esophageal placement or tube dislodgement.

Question 4

Which finding on auscultation after intubation suggests right mainstem bronchus intubation?

Accepted Answer

Breath sounds only over right side, absent on left

Answer

Right mainstem intubation results in ventilation of only the right lung, producing breath sounds on the right but absent sounds on the left.

Question 5

During transport of an intubated trauma patient, how often should tube position be confirmed?

Accepted Answer

Continuously via waveform capnography throughout transport

Answer

Continuous waveform ETCO2 monitoring is the standard for ongoing confirmation of tube position and ventilation adequacy during transport.

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS Airway and Ventilation 5