After intentional drain-cleaner ingestion, a patient develops hoarseness, stridor, drooling and increasing work of breathing. Oxygenation is

Question

After intentional drain-cleaner ingestion, a patient develops hoarseness, stridor, drooling and increasing work of breathing. Oxygenation is currently maintained. What is the immediate airway plan?

Accepted Answer

Proceed with early controlled intubation using video laryngoscopy and surgical backup

Answer

Observe for oxygen desaturation while preparing equipment for possible tracheal intubation

Answer

Use non-invasive ventilation with continuous monitoring of progressive supraglottic edema

Answer

Give corticosteroids and nebulized epinephrine while preparing for later airway reassessment

Answer

Arrange urgent endoscopy before airway intervention to grade esophageal and gastric injury severity

Inhalational burn airway injury — RCPSC EM MCQ

After intentional drain-cleaner ingestion, a patient develops hoarseness, stridor, drooling and increasing work of breathing. Oxygenation is currently maintained. What is the immediate airway plan?