Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is a good indication for performing a nasal intubation?

1. Patient is unconscious

2. Gag reflex intact

3. Presence of facial injuries

4. Severe respiratory distress

The correct answer is: Gag reflex intact

A good indication for performing nasal intubation is when the gag reflex is intact. This is because an intact gag reflex suggests that the patient can protect their airway, making it safer to perform the procedure without the immediate risk of aspiration. Nasal intubation is often preferred in situations where oral intubation may be difficult or impossible, such as in patients with certain facial or oral injuries. In cases where the patient is unconscious, they're usually unable to maintain their airway independently, which could lead to complications during the procedure. The presence of facial injuries may complicate nasal intubation due to potential obstruction or misalignment of the nasal passages. Severe respiratory distress may necessitate airway management, but it doesn’t inherently indicate that nasal intubation is the best course of action, as the patient's level of consciousness and ability to manage their airway would need to be considered. Thus, an intact gag reflex demonstrates that the patient has some protective airway function, making it a favorable condition for nasal intubation.