Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

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Study for the Advanced Patient Assessment Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each enriched with hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success with this comprehensive prep!

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A portable film is ordered immediately after a patient is intubated in the ED. Which of the following distances confirms proper placement of the endotracheal tube?

5 to 7 cm above the carina
3 to 5 cm above the carina
1 to 2 cm below the cricoid cartilage
3 cm below the thyroid cartilage

The correct answer is: 3 to 5 cm above the carina

The correct answer indicates that proper placement of the endotracheal tube is confirmed by its positioning 3 to 5 cm above the carina. This distance is crucial because the carina marks the point where the trachea bifurcates into the right and left main bronchi. If the endotracheal tube is positioned too far past the carina, it could enter one of the bronchi, leading to inadequate ventilation of the other lung. The 3 to 5 cm distance provides a safety margin that helps ensure both lungs receive adequate airflow and reduces the risk of complications, such as unintentional intubation of the bronchial tree or injury to the trachea. In terms of the other options, while some may point to potentially acceptable positioning proximally or distally, they do not provide the balanced assurance of safety and effective ventilation that is sought in emergency settings. Proper placement above the carina is imperative for maintaining airway patency and avoiding unintentional complications.