What is the first step in managing a patient with a complete airway obstruction?

What is the first step in managing a patient with a complete airway obstruction?

• A. Administer supplemental oxygen
• B. Perform abdominal thrusts
• C. Begin CPR immediately
• D. Perform a head-tilt chin-lift

Answer: (B)

In the case of a complete airway obstruction, the priority is to clear the obstruction and restore airflow. Performing abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, is an appropriate first step because it creates pressure that can help dislodge an object blocking the airway. This technique is specifically designed for situations where a patient is unable to breathe, cough, or speak due to a foreign body obstructing the airway. Supplemental oxygen is not effective in this scenario, as the underlying issue is the inability to move air due to the obstruction. Starting CPR is indicated if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing, but is not the first step when you have a clear obstruction that may still be resolved through abdominal thrusts. Lastly, while the head-tilt chin-lift is a common maneuver to open the airway, it is not effective in cases of complete obstruction, as it does not address the blockage itself. Therefore, initiating abdominal thrusts is crucial and the most logical first step in managing a complete airway obstruction.

In the case of a complete airway obstruction, the priority is to clear the obstruction and restore airflow. Performing abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, is an appropriate first step because it creates pressure that can help dislodge an object blocking the airway. This technique is specifically designed for situations where a patient is unable to breathe, cough, or speak due to a foreign body obstructing the airway.

Supplemental oxygen is not effective in this scenario, as the underlying issue is the inability to move air due to the obstruction. Starting CPR is indicated if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing, but is not the first step when you have a clear obstruction that may still be resolved through abdominal thrusts. Lastly, while the head-tilt chin-lift is a common maneuver to open the airway, it is not effective in cases of complete obstruction, as it does not address the blockage itself.

Therefore, initiating abdominal thrusts is crucial and the most logical first step in managing a complete airway obstruction.