Which of the following is an example to inquire about during airway patency assessment?

• A. Fluids (blood, vomit, or secretions)
• B. Heart rate
• C. Blood pressure
• D. Glucose level

Answer: (A)

Airway patency assessment centers on whether the airway is open and free from obstruction. Asking about and identifying fluids such as blood, vomit, or secretions is essential because these materials can quickly block the airway and endanger breathing. Recognizing their presence guides immediate actions like suctioning, clearing the airway, repositioning, and preparing airway adjuncts. By contrast, heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose level relate to circulation or metabolic status rather than whether the airway is physically open, so they don’t directly indicate airway patency.