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Antiemetic retrieval — DipIMC MCQ

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HardPre-Hospital PharmacologyAntiemetic retrievalDipIMC

During movement of an intubated trauma patient, the continuous capnography waveform abruptly disappears, chest rise is absent and oxygen saturation is falling. The circuit remains connected. What is the immediate airway response?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Stop, reassess tube position and ventilate if placement is unconfirmed

The best answer is “Stop, reassess tube position and ventilate if placement is unconfirmed”. A sudden loss of waveform capnography with absent chest movement must be treated as airway or circuit failure, including possible tracheal-tube displacement. Stop movement, check the patient, tube and circuit, and restore oxygenation with a reliable technique; remove an unconfirmed tube and ventilate by mask if necessary. Pulse oximetry may deteriorate late.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK 2025, Adult advanced life support: https://www.resus.org.uk/professional-library/2025-resuscitation-guidelines/adult-advanced-life-support-guidelines