PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Airway and Ventilation

Question 1

Which airway adjunct is most appropriate for an unconscious trauma patient with an intact gag reflex?

Accepted Answer

Nasopharyngeal airway (NPA)

Answer

The nasopharyngeal airway is better tolerated than the OPA in patients with an intact gag reflex.

Question 2

What is the primary risk of hyperventilation in a trauma patient with a head injury?

Accepted Answer

Cerebral vasoconstriction causing decreased cerebral perfusion

Answer

Hyperventilation causes hypocapnia leading to cerebral vasoconstriction, which reduces cerebral blood flow and can worsen secondary brain injury.

Question 3

In PHTLS, what is the jaw thrust maneuver primarily used for?

Accepted Answer

Opening the airway in patients with suspected cervical spine injury

Answer

The jaw thrust opens the airway by displacing the mandible anteriorly without extending the neck, making it the preferred technique when cervical spine injury is suspected.

Question 4

What is the preferred initial ventilation method for a trauma patient requiring assisted ventilation in the field?

Accepted Answer

Bag-valve-mask with supplemental oxygen

Answer

Bag-valve-mask ventilation with supplemental oxygen provides effective ventilation with high FiO2 delivery.

Question 5

Which clinical sign indicates a potentially compromised airway in a trauma patient?

Accepted Answer

Stridor or gurgling sounds during breathing

Answer

Stridor indicates upper airway narrowing and gurgling suggests fluid in the airway, both signs of airway compromise requiring immediate intervention.

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Airway and Ventilation