Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

A patient with partial-thickness burns on his face and neck is experiencing dyspnea. What should you be MOST concerned about?

1. Burn depth

2. Patient's age

3. Status of his airway

4. Extent of burns

The correct answer is: Status of his airway

When a patient presents with partial-thickness burns on the face and neck along with dyspnea, the primary concern should be the status of the airway. Burns in these areas can lead to significant complications, such as airway edema and inhalation injuries, which can compromise the ability to breathe adequately. The proximity of the burns to the airway makes it particularly susceptible to swelling, which can obstruct airflow. In emergency situations, it is vital to assess and maintain a patent airway, especially with signs of respiratory distress. This may necessitate prompt intervention, such as intubation, to secure the airway before any swelling progresses further. The potential for compromised breathing in a patient with facial and neck burns emphasizes the importance of focusing on respiratory function and ensuring that the airway remains clear and accessible. While factors like burn depth, the patient's age, and the extent of burns are important in overall management and potential complications, they do not present an immediate and direct threat to life as the status of the airway does in this scenario. Hence, the immediate priority is to ensure that the airway is unhindered and can support the patient's breathing effectively.