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Massive hemoptysis — ABEM Board MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardPulmonary emergenciesMassive hemoptysisABEM Board

A 64-year-old man with bronchiectasis arrives as triage level 1 after coughing up 350 mL of bright red blood. Oxygen saturation is 84%, BP 96/60 mm Hg, and blood is pooling in the oropharynx. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial action?

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

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Correct answer: E — Position the bleeding side down, secure the airway, and arrange bronchial artery embolization

Massive hemoptysis kills by asphyxiation; airway protection and positioning with the bleeding lung down take priority, followed by definitive localization and embolization.

Reference: CHEST hemoptysis guidance; ABEM EM Model