What is a EMT initial assessment for the upper airway?

EMT initial assessment for the upper airway. Airway and breathing are assessed at the same time.

1. Look: External and Internal portions of the airway. Note trauma vomitus, fluids, objects, cyanotic skin, chest rise and fall, assess respiration's or lack thereof.
2. Listen: Are respiration's present, are they noisy, gurgling present.
3. Feel: Do you feel on your cheek warm humid exhalation, how much air do you feel.
4. Management: Correct anything that threatens respiration's Insert OPA or NPA to maintain airway if required; or if trained insert EOA or endotracheal tube. If weak or no respiration's give O2. Confirm adequate respiration's before checking circulation, the next step.