Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which complication is most significant in patients with facial injuries?

1. Infection

2. Disfigurement

3. Airway compromise

4. Severe bleeding

The correct answer is: Airway compromise

In patients with facial injuries, airway compromise is a critical complication due to the unique anatomy of the face and its proximity to the airway structures. Facial injuries can lead to swelling, hematoma formation, or direct damage to the airway itself, all of which can obstruct airflow and make breathing difficult. Injuries such as those to the mandible or maxilla can displace bone fragments into the airway or cause soft tissue swelling that narrows or blocks the airway. Additionally, facial trauma often occurs in high-impact scenarios, such as vehicle collisions or falls, where accompanying injuries may further complicate the respiratory status of the patient. Recognizing the risk of airway compromise is essential for EMTs, as timely intervention is necessary to secure the airway and ensure proper ventilation, which is vital for patient survival and recovery. Other complications, like infection, disfigurement, or severe bleeding, while significant, do not pose the immediate life-threatening concern that airway compromise does in the setting of facial injuries.