Airway assessment is performed early in the trauma evaluation because an unrecognized airway problem can rapidly lead to respiratory failure, hypoxia, and death. The provider’s first responsibility is determining whether the patient can maintain a patent airway.

A rapid airway assessment should evaluate:

• Ability to speak
• Level of consciousness
• Airway patency
• Presence of blood, vomit, secretions, or foreign material
• Facial or airway trauma
• Signs of airway obstruction

Common signs of airway compromise include:

• Abnormal airway sounds (snoring, gurgling, stridor)
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty speaking
• Increased work of breathing

Trauma providers should identify airway problems early and intervene before complete airway obstruction occurs. Airway status should be reassessed frequently, as trauma patients can deteriorate rapidly due to swelling, bleeding, or changes in mental status.

Remember: If the patient can speak clearly, the airway is likely patent. If they cannot, further assessment and intervention may be required.