New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What is a sign of an effective cough in a patient with a foreign body obstruction?

1. Stridor

2. High-pitched sounds

3. Forceful expulsion of air

4. Weak, ineffective coughing

The correct answer is: Forceful expulsion of air

A sign of an effective cough in a patient with a foreign body obstruction is the forceful expulsion of air. This indicates that the patient's airway is partially obstructed but still allows for sufficient airflow to generate a cough strong enough to potentially dislodge the foreign object. A strong, effective cough produces enough pressure to expel air rapidly, which is crucial for clearing the airway in emergencies. In contrast, stridor and high-pitched sounds typically indicate a more severe obstruction and may suggest inadequate airflow, rather than an effective attempt to clear the airway. Weak, ineffective coughing suggests that the patient is unable to generate enough pressure to clear the obstruction, which is a concerning sign of respiratory distress. Thus, a forceful cough is not only a positive indicator of the patient's ability to manage the obstruction but also an essential reflex to prevent further complications.