3 Airway Management Free Online FlashCards

What is the first priority when a burn patient may have airway compromise?

Assess airway and breathing first, provide support as needed, and seek experienced airway help if deterioration is possible.

Why is hoarseness after an enclosed-space fire concerning?

Hoarseness after an enclosed-space fire raises concern for evolving upper-airway injury. Assess airway and breathing, give high-concentration oxygen, and prepare for possible early intubation.

What does stridor with increasing work of breathing indicate?

Stridor with increasing work of breathing suggests significant airway narrowing and warrants urgent definitive airway assessment and experienced support.

Do singed nasal hairs alone mean a burn patient needs intubation?

No. Singed hairs or facial burns alone do not automatically require intubation, but they call for careful assessment and repeated observation.

When can burn-related airway swelling worsen?

Airway swelling may worsen over time and during fluid resuscitation, so an initially reassuring assessment may not remain reassuring.

Why should airway and breathing be reassessed frequently after a burn?

Reassess airway and breathing frequently because swelling and airway findings can change after the initial assessment.

Does a normal pulse-oximeter reading rule out carbon monoxide poisoning?

No. Standard pulse oximetry may not distinguish carboxyhemoglobin from oxyhemoglobin, so a reassuring reading does not rule out carbon monoxide poisoning.

Should oxygen wait until carbon monoxide test results are available?

Give oxygen when carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected; do not wait for test results before providing it.

How should a stable patient with soot in the mouth be managed?

Provide oxygen as indicated, arrange evaluation and burn-center consultation, and monitor closely for change. Soot alone does not establish a need for immediate intubation.

What is the priority when swelling increases before a prolonged transfer?

Reassess the airway, urgently consult experienced airway and burn-care teams, and consider securing the airway before deterioration makes management more difficult.

When is prompt burn-center consultation warranted?

Suspected inhalation injury warrants prompt burn-center consultation, especially when airway deterioration is possible.

What comes first when a burn patient becomes less responsive with noisy breathing?

Address airway patency and oxygenation, call for advanced airway assistance, and assess breathing before continuing the secondary survey.