Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What do snoring respirations in an unconscious patient indicate?

1. Complete airway obstruction

2. Partial occlusion of the posterior pharynx by the tongue

3. Asthma exacerbation

4. Pneumonia

The correct answer is: Partial occlusion of the posterior pharynx by the tongue

Snoring respirations in an unconscious patient most commonly indicate a partial occlusion of the posterior pharynx by the tongue. When a person loses consciousness, they often lose the muscular tone that keeps the airway open. The tongue can then fall back and partially obstruct the airway, leading to characteristic snoring sounds as air passes through this narrowed passage. This scenario highlights the importance of maintaining an open airway in unresponsive patients, as it can lead to hypoxia if not addressed. In contrast, complete airway obstruction would result in no sounds or movement of air at all, while conditions like asthma exacerbation or pneumonia would manifest differently, typically not producing snoring but instead presenting with wheezing or crackling respiratory sounds. Understanding the implications of different respiratory sounds is crucial for effective assessment and intervention in emergency situations.