Respiratory Emergencies & Airway Management Flashcards

Which airway-opening technique is recommended for an unresponsive adult when NO spinal injury is suspected?

Answer: Head-tilt chin-lift

The head-tilt chin-lift is the standard first-aid technique for opening the airway of an unconscious patient without a suspected spinal injury.

What is the normal resting respiratory rate for an adult?

Answer: 12–20 breaths per minute

A normal adult resting respiratory rate is 12–20 breaths per minute; rates outside this range may indicate a breathing problem.

When a spinal injury is suspected in an unconscious worker, which airway technique should the first aider use?

Answer: Jaw thrust maneuver

The jaw thrust moves the mandible forward to open the airway without extending the neck, making it the preferred method when spinal injury is possible.

Which sign is most consistent with a COMPLETE airway obstruction?

Answer: Unable to speak, cough, or breathe

A victim with a complete obstruction cannot speak, cough, or move air and requires immediate intervention such as abdominal thrusts.

Which breath sound indicates a partial UPPER airway obstruction?

Answer: Stridor

Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh inspiratory sound caused by partial obstruction at the level of the larynx or trachea.

The 'look, listen, and feel' assessment technique is used to evaluate which patient parameter?

Answer: Presence and adequacy of breathing

Looking for chest rise, listening for breath sounds, and feeling for air movement against the cheek together confirm whether a patient is breathing adequately.

A worker is unconscious and breathing with a gurgling sound. What does this most likely indicate?

Answer: Fluid or secretions partially blocking the airway

Gurgling indicates fluid (blood, vomit, or secretions) in the upper airway, which requires positioning (recovery position) and suctioning if available.