Step 2 - Respiratory System Questions

USMLE / COMLEX - Step 2 > Pulmonology > USMLE/COMLEX 2 - Prep Questions

Q. A 60-year-old man weighing 350 lbs. with a history of obstructive sleep apnea has been brought to the emergency department by ambulance in respiratory failure. The paramedics spoke with the patient’s brother who stated that the patient intentionally overdosed on benzodiazepines. The patient is hemodynamically stable with a Glasgow coma score of 5. The resident physician assesses the situation and decides the best course of action is to intubate the patient and shift him to the ICU for supportive management. What is the most appropriate decision to be taken at this time?

An attending should be called if there is difficulty in intubating after four attempts
Cricoid pressure may be reduced if there is difficulty intubating
The patient should be shifted to the operating room in anticipation of a difficult airway
Non-invasive ventilation should be attempted first
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