Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What upper airway sound is associated with inspiratory difficulty?

1. Wheezing

2. Stridor

3. Rhonchi

4. Crackles

The correct answer is: Stridor

Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound that occurs during inspiration, signaling a potential obstruction or narrowing in the upper airway, such as that found in conditions like croup or anaphylaxis. The sound is typically heard without a stethoscope and can be an indication of serious respiratory distress. It results from turbulent airflow through a narrowed passage, which can occur above the vocal cords, highlighting the potential for significant airway compromise. Understanding the characteristics of the other sounds provides further context. Wheezing is primarily an expiratory sound, while rhonchi and crackles are more associated with lower airway issues or conditions affecting lung tissue and secretions. Rhonchi indicates airflow obstruction in the larger airways often related to mucus, and crackles are associated with fluid in the small airways, such as pneumonia or congestive heart failure. Stridor, however, is distinct in that it indicates inspiratory difficulty, aligning perfectly with the question's requirements.