Respiratory System Anatomy and Airway Compromise

Anatomy and Physiology of the Respiratory System

• The respiratory system consists of the upper airway (nose, mouth, throat) and lower airway (trachea, bronchi, lungs)
• The upper airway warms, humidifies, and filters incoming air, while the lower airway facilitates gas exchange between the lungs and bloodstream

Compromised Airway in an Adult

• Airway compromise can occur due to various factors, such as:
  • Anatomical obstructions (e.g., tumors, foreign objects)
  • Infections (e.g., epiglottitis, abscesses)
  • Inflammations (e.g., anaphylaxis, allergic reactions)
  • Trauma (e.g., facial injuries, burns)
• Identifying persons at risk of airway compromise:
  • Patients with a history of respiratory disease, facial trauma, or allergic reactions
  • Those with a decreased level of consciousness (e.g., due to head injury, stroke, or drug overdose)

Responding to a Partially or Completely Obstructed Airway

• Recognition of signs and symptoms:
  • Ineffective breathing (e.g., wheezing, stridor, cyanosis)
  • Difficulty speaking or swallowing
  • Choking or coughing
  • Agitation, anxiety, or panic
• Initial response:
  • Call for assistance
  • Position the person upright or on their side, depending on the situation
  • Encourage the person to cough or try to clear the obstruction
• Simple airway maneuvers:
  • Chin lift: gently lifting the chin to open the airway
  • Jaw thrust: pushing the jaw forward to open the airway
  • Back blows: five quick blows between the shoulder blades to dislodge the obstruction

Influence of a Compromised Airway on Ventilation

• A compromised airway can lead to:
  • Hypoxia (insufficient oxygenation of the body)
  • Respiratory distress or failure
  • Decreased lung volume and compliance
  • Increased work of breathing, leading to fatigue and exhaustion