Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam

What should be the immediate next step for an unresponsive trauma patient after unsuccessful intubation?

1. Ventilate with a BVM

2. Prepare for cricothyroidotomy

3. Administer reversal medications

4. Contact anesthesia for assistance

The correct answer is: Ventilate with a BVM

For an unresponsive trauma patient after unsuccessful intubation, the most appropriate immediate next step is to ventilate with a bag-valve-mask (BVM). This technique allows for the provision of positive pressure ventilation to the patient despite the unsuccessful attempt at securing the airway with intubation. The use of BVM is a critical intervention that aims to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation when the patient is unable to breathe on their own or when intubation fails. Utilizing bag-valve-mask ventilation helps to maintain oxygenation and prevent hypoxia while further airway management options are considered. It is crucial to ensure that the mask is properly sealed to provide effective ventilation and that supplemental oxygen is provided, if available. This step is foundational in emergency care because it stabilizes the patient's respiratory status while the healthcare team prepares for alternative airway management strategies. In circumstances where intubation fails, rapidly transitioning to a method that can deliver adequate ventilation is imperative to avoid further compromise to the patient's oxygenation and overall status. This intervention supports the fundamental principle of maintaining airway patency and providing sufficient respiratory support in critical care situations.