You are by the side of a patient complaining of shortness of breath with a history of heart problems, including congestive heart failure (CHF). When assessing the airway, which one of the following observations best indicates that it is patent?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the patient is easily able to communicate and speak a full sentence without difficulty indicates that their airway is open and patent. If the patient was unable to speak due to shortness of breath, it would indicate an airway obstruction or breathing difficulty. However, the other options suggest that this patient may be experiencing respiratory distress caused by heart failure, rather than an actual airway obstruction.

You Are by the Side of a Patient Complaining of Shortness