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Massive haemoptysis — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardRespiratory emergenciesMassive haemoptysisRCPSC EM

A 61-year-old with bronchiectasis coughs 400 mL of blood in the ED. Oxygen saturation is 84%, BP is 102/64 mmHg, and bleeding appears from the right main bronchus on urgent bronchoscopy. Two large-bore IVs are in place. What is the most appropriate next step?

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

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Correct answer: E — Place the bleeding side down and secure the airway with urgent specialist support

Place the bleeding side down and secure the airway with urgent specialist support is correct: the clues indicate Massive haemoptysis and this option addresses the immediate ED priority. The distractors delay care, target a less likely problem, or are unsafe in this physiology.

Reference: Rosen's Emergency Medicine; Canadian airway practice