Which finding indicates a patent airway?

Which finding indicates a patent airway?

• A. Snoring sounds
• B. Forceful coughing
• C. Gurgling sounds
• D. No audible air movement

Answer: (B)

The airway is considered patent when air can move freely through it. A forceful cough shows that air is being expelled from the lungs and moving through the airway, which means the airway is open enough to ventilate. This strong cough also reflects that the patient can generate enough airflow to clear potential obstructions. Snoring sounds come from partial blockage in the upper airway, so airflow is impaired but not completely stopped. A gurgling sound indicates secretions or fluid in the airway, which also points to partial obstruction or compromised patency. No audible air movement suggests little to no air is passing, signaling a severe obstruction or very poor ventilation, which is the opposite of a patent airway.

The airway is considered patent when air can move freely through it. A forceful cough shows that air is being expelled from the lungs and moving through the airway, which means the airway is open enough to ventilate. This strong cough also reflects that the patient can generate enough airflow to clear potential obstructions.

Snoring sounds come from partial blockage in the upper airway, so airflow is impaired but not completely stopped. A gurgling sound indicates secretions or fluid in the airway, which also points to partial obstruction or compromised patency. No audible air movement suggests little to no air is passing, signaling a severe obstruction or very poor ventilation, which is the opposite of a patent airway.