You are called to the scene of a patient who has just attempted suicide by ingesting detergent. You notice that the patient is coughing and has a hoarse voice. You suspect:
A) tracheal rupture.
B) laryngeal edema.
C) subcutaneous emphysema.
D) nothing, this is a normal finding for this patient.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ingesting detergent can cause chemical burns to the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and esophagus. Hoarseness and coughing may indicate laryngeal edema, which is swelling of the larynx due to inflammation. This is an urgent condition that requires immediate medical attention. Tracheal rupture and subcutaneous emphysema may also be a concern with ingestion of caustic substances, but in this scenario, the symptoms described are more indicative of laryngeal edema. "Nothing, this is a normal finding for this patient" is an incorrect answer as these symptoms are not normal for a patient who has ingested detergent.

You Are Called to the Scene of a Patient Who