Which signs indicate airway compromise in a trauma patient?

• A. Stridor, hoarseness, gurgling, reduced breath sounds, and abnormal oxygen saturation
• B. New onset chest pain with coughing
• C. Fever and rash
• D. Normal breath sounds with clear oxygen saturation

Answer: (A)

Recognizing airway compromise in a trauma patient hinges on signs that the airway or ventilation is being blocked. Stridor signals upper airway obstruction from swelling or injury; hoarseness points to trauma to the larynx or vocal cords; and gurgling indicates blood or secretions in the airway, suggesting partial obstruction. Reduced breath sounds reflect impaired ventilation, which can occur with airway blockage, aspiration, or chest injury. Abnormal oxygen saturation shows the patient isn’t adequately oxygenating, a consequence of airway or ventilation problems. By contrast, new onset chest pain with coughing may indicate chest or lung injury but not a direct sign of airway obstruction. Fever and rash aren’t related to airway function, and normal breath sounds with clear oxygen saturation suggest the airway is patent and ventilation is adequate.