As the therapist auscultates over an infant's larynx, he hears a very low-pitched sound. On the basis of this finding, what impression is he or she likely to have regarding the nature of the upper airway obstruction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Auscultation of air movement during inspiration and expiration aids in determining the severity and location of the obstruction. The pitch of the stridor can be used to assess improvement or worsening of the obstruction. Low-pitched sounds signify mild obstruction, whereas a higher pitch indicates that the child is in more distress and is attempting to generate a higher air flow rate.

As the Therapist Auscultates Over an Infant's Larynx, He Hears