How can you determine if a casualty has an airway obstruction?

Determining if a casualty has an airway obstruction can be critically assessed by observing signs of distress. When a person suffers from an airway obstruction, they often exhibit noticeable signs such as difficulty breathing, gasping for air, wheezing, or even panic. They may also be unable to speak or make sound, depending on the severity of the obstruction. These signs are usually the most immediate indicators that alert a responder to potential airway issues.

While a physical examination may provide further information, the visual and behavioral signs associated with distress are often the first clues indicating that an individual is struggling to breathe properly. Assessing responsiveness to verbal cues, while potentially useful, may not be reliable if the casualty is unable to speak due to the obstruction. Conducting a pulse check is important in other contexts but does not specifically indicate airway patency or obstruction. Thus, focusing on observable signs of distress is crucial for a rapid and effective assessment of a potential airway obstruction.