Which assessment should be conducted for a patient suspected of having an inhalation injury?

Inhalation injuries are often associated with thermal or chemical exposure to the airways, and they can lead to serious respiratory complications. Conducting a thorough respiratory assessment is critical in this context.

This assessment includes evaluating the patient's airway patency, breathing patterns, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation levels. Listening to lung sounds can reveal signs of airway obstruction, such as stridor or wheezing, which may indicate swelling or blockage due to injury. Additionally, observing for signs of respiratory distress, such as increased work of breathing or use of accessory muscles, provides important information regarding the severity of the inhalation injury.

Assessing the respiratory system is vital not only for identifying the presence and extent of the injury but also for initiating timely interventions to secure the airway, provide supplemental oxygen, or prepare for potential intubation if the patient's condition worsens.

While other assessments, such as examining skin integrity, evaluating cardiovascular status, and conducting neurological examinations, are also important in the overall evaluation of a patient's condition, they do not specifically target the immediate dangers associated with inhalation injuries, such as compromised airway or respiratory function.