Surgery>>>>>Burns
Question 1#

A 22-year-old man is brought to the emergency room after a house fire. He has burns around his mouth and his voice is hoarse, but breathing is unlabored.

What most appropriate next step in management?

A. Immediate endotracheal intubation
B. Examination of oral cavity and pharynx, with fiberoptic laryngoscope if available
C. Place on supplemental oxygen
D. Placement of two large-bore intravenous (IV) catheters with fluid resuscitation

Correct Answer is B

Comment:

With direct thermal injury to the upper airway or smoke inhalation, rapid and severe airway edema is a potentially lethal threat. Anticipating the need for intubation and establishing an early airway is critical. Perioral burns and singed nasal hair are signs that the oral cavity and pharynx should be further evaluated for mucosal injury, but these physical findings alone do not indicate an upper airway injury. Signs of impending respiratory compromise may include a hoarse voice, wheezing, or stridor; subjective dyspnea is a particularly concerning symptom, and should trigger prompt elective endotracheal intubation. In patients with combined multiple trauma, especially oral trauma, nasotracheal intubation may be useful but should be avoided if oral intubation is safe and easy.