What fluids can block the airway?

There are a number of fluids that can block an airway. Two that should immediately come to mind are mucus and vomitous. And blood can also be included in that list. Any of these fluids might be encountered by a first responder in an emergency medical situation. The same applies to the RN or nursing assistant in a medical setting (like a hospital or care facility).

There are other fluids that can block an airway, and they might include anything an individual was drinking before encountering an obstructed airway, particularly if it is a thick liquid. Certainly anything being ingested (soup or other fluid-like substances) can obstruct an airway in a given situation. A first responder or medical professional should be able to deal with any fluids obstructing an airway when prividing emergency care.