North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What indicates a need to suction a patient during airway management?

1. Dry cough

2. Gurgling sound

3. Wheezing sound

4. Chest pain

The correct answer is: Gurgling sound

The presence of a gurgling sound is a clear indication that the patient's airway may be obstructed by secretions or fluids. This auditory sign suggests that there is an accumulation of material in the airway, which can jeopardize the patient's ability to breathe effectively and may lead to respiratory distress. Suctioning is necessary to clear these obstructions, ensuring that the airway remains patent and improving oxygenation and ventilation. In contrast, a dry cough might imply that the patient is attempting to clear their airway without the presence of excessive secretions. Wheezing usually indicates constriction or inflammation in the lower airways, rather than blockage that requires suctioning. Chest pain is not directly related to the airway's condition and does not provide an indication for suctioning in the context of managing airway obstruction.