Question

A 5-year-old child with a history of a chronic neuromuscular disease is experiencing respiratory distress. The child is breathing spontaneously and receiving supplemental oxygen. Which additional intervention is a critical component of airway management for this patient?

Select the correct answer to this question.
A. Assisted ventilation
B. Bronchodilator administration
C. Airway clearance (e.g., suctioning)
D. Advanced airway

Answer 1

The critical component of airway management for a 5-year-old child with a chronic neuromuscular disease and respiratory distress is advanced airway intervention, such as an endotracheal tube or a supraglottic airway device.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a 5-year-old child with a history of a chronic neuromuscular disease experiencing respiratory distress, the critical component of airway management would be Advanced airway intervention, which is option D.

This is because an advanced airway, such as an endotracheal tube or a supraglottic airway device, can provide better support for the child's breathing and help maintain adequate air exchange. It allows for more precise control of ventilation and ensures that the child's airway is protected.

Assisted ventilation (option A) may be necessary if the child's spontaneous breathing is inadequate despite supplemental oxygen. Bronchodilator administration (option B) may be helpful in certain conditions, but it is not the critical intervention in this case. Airway clearance (option C) through suctioning may be needed to remove excess mucus or secretions, but it is not the immediate priority.