Paramedic National Registry Practice

What mechanism causes respiratory distress in a child with an obstructed airway?

1. Airway constriction

2. Atelectasis

3. Bronchospasm

4. Respiratory muscle fatigue

The correct answer is: Airway constriction

The correct response centers on the concept of airway obstruction. In a child with an obstructed airway, the primary mechanism leading to respiratory distress is indeed airway constriction. This obstruction can occur due to various factors, such as foreign bodies, swelling, or the presence of secretions, which physically block the airflow through the passages necessary for normal respiration. When an airway is obstructed, the normal movement of air into and out of the lungs is significantly impaired. This can lead to inadequate ventilation and oxygenation, causing the child to exhibit signs of respiratory distress. Airway constriction due to an obstruction can lead to increased work of breathing, as the child may struggle to inhale air past the obstruction, often resulting in abnormal respiratory patterns. Other mechanisms contributing to respiratory distress may vary but are not the primary factors in the case of a clear obstruction. While atelectasis can lead to reduced lung volumes and respiratory distress, it typically results from lung collapse due to factors like insufficient inflation rather than a direct obstruction in the airway. Similarly, bronchospasm involves constriction of the bronchial tubes and may not be directly related to an obstructed airway scenario. Respiratory muscle fatigue occurs from prolonged effort in breathing, which may arise as a consequence of struggling against an