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Adult epiglottitis — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory emergenciesAdult epiglottitisRCPSC EM

A 68-year-old man with stridor, drooling and fever sits leaning forward and refuses to lie flat. He has diabetes and severe sore throat. Oxygen saturation is 93% on room air and lateral neck radiograph is not yet done. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: E — Awake flexible nasolaryngoscopy in a controlled setting with airway and ENT support

Adult epiglottitis or supraglottitis is a potentially difficult airway. Diagnosis is best made with controlled visualisation while preserving spontaneous ventilation and having airway expertise immediately available.

Reference: Canadian airway management practice; Rosen's Emergency Medicine