Question

Jeff, age 16, was involved in a MVA, he walks into the office with an obvious facial fracture, then collapses. What should your first action be?

a- call his parents for permission to treat
b- assess for an adequate airway
c- obtain head and maxillofacial CT
d- assess for septal hematoma

Answer 1

The first action when Jeff collapses with an obvious facial fracture after an MVA should be to assess for an adequate airway to ensure he can breathe properly.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Jeff, age 16, is involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) and presents with an obvious facial fracture before collapsing, the first action should be to assess for an adequate airway. Ensuring that the airway is not obstructed is crucial as it is a primary concern in all acute medical and trauma situations, especially given the facial trauma which could compromise breathing.

While advanced imaging such as MRI or CT scanning can localize injuries, and assessing for a septal hematoma could be part of a thorough exam, these steps come after stabilizing the patient and ensuring that the airway is secure. In such emergency situations, even simple tools like a cotton-tipped applicator may be used to assist in assessments, but the first priority is always to assess and manage the airway.