What is your primary concern if you discover that a patient does not have a gag reflex?
A) Fear of aspiration of bacteria or food
B) That their tonsilar tissues are grossly swollen
C) That they will not be able to breathe adequately
D) Tracheal collapse

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reflexes of the mouth, pharynx, and larynx help to protect the lower respiratory tract during swallowing.These protective functions can be severely compromised during anesthesia or unconsciousness. Loss or compromise of these important reflexes can result in aspiration of bacteria colonized saliva or food and can cause pulmonary infection and asphyxiation in severe cases.

What Is Your Primary Concern If You Discover That a Patient