The mother of a toddler yells to the nurse, "Help! He is choking to death on his food." The nurse determines that lifesaving measures are necessary based on which symptom?
A) Gagging
B) Coughing
C) Pulse over 100 beats/min
D) Inability to speak

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inability to speak is indicative of a foreign-body airway obstruction of the larynx. Abdominal thrusts are needed for treatment of the choking child. Gagging indicates irritation at the back of the throat, not obstruction. Coughing does not indicate a complete airway obstruction. Tachycardia may be present for many reasons.

The Mother of a Toddler Yells to the Nurse, "Help!