Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate for a patient who is unresponsive, has snoring respirations, and a history of possible drug use?

Get more with Examzify Plus

Remove ads, unlock favorites, save progress, and access premium tools across devices.

FavoritesSave progressAd-free
From $9.99Learn more

Prepare for the EMT Toxicologic Emergencies Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Master essential concepts with hints and detailed explanations. Enhance your readiness today!

In cases where a patient is unresponsive and presenting with snoring respirations, the primary concern is protecting the airway and ensuring adequate ventilation. Opening the airway is essential, as it allows for better airflow and reduces the risk of airway obstruction. Given the patient's unresponsiveness and history of possible drug use, there is a high likelihood of central nervous system depression that could compromise their ability to maintain an open airway.

Providing oxygen is crucial because even if the patient is unresponsive, they may still require oxygen support to ensure tissue perfusion and prevent hypoxia. In toxicology cases, especially involving drug use, patients often exhibit respiratory depression which further emphasizes the need for supplemental oxygen.

Rapid transport to the hospital is indicated due to the patient's critical condition. While supportive measures at the scene are important, an unresponsive patient with a potential overdose requires advanced medical evaluation and possible interventions, including potential antidotes or advanced airway management.

Other interventions, like checking the blood glucose level or administering oral glucose, are not appropriate in this scenario because the patient's level of consciousness precludes the safe administration of oral medications, and the immediate priority is maintaining their airway and ensuring their breath support rather than addressing potential hypoglycemia. Thus, the focus should be on airway management and transport

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy