Which of the following shows you that a person's airway is open?

Which of the following shows you that a person's airway is open?

• A. The person is breathing deeply
• B. The person is gasping for air
• C. The person is moaning softly
• D. The person has difficulty speaking

Answer: (C)

The indication that a person's airway is open is best exemplified by the presence of clear and audible breathing. When a person is moaning softly, it typically means that air is passing freely through the vocal cords, suggesting that the airway is not obstructed. Soft moaning can occur when someone is responsive and able to vocalize even if they are in distress or discomfort. In contrast, other scenarios such as gasping for air may indicate that the person is struggling to breathe, which can imply a compromised airway. Deep breathing can imply a normal respiratory function but does not definitively confirm that the airway is open because the individual could be in a state of respiratory distress. Difficulty speaking can also suggest some level of obstruction or weakness in airflow, which would indicate a potential issue with the airway. Thus, the soft moaning is the clearest indicator that the person is able to generate sound through the vocal cords, confirming that the airway is likely open and functioning properly.

The indication that a person's airway is open is best exemplified by the presence of clear and audible breathing. When a person is moaning softly, it typically means that air is passing freely through the vocal cords, suggesting that the airway is not obstructed. Soft moaning can occur when someone is responsive and able to vocalize even if they are in distress or discomfort.

In contrast, other scenarios such as gasping for air may indicate that the person is struggling to breathe, which can imply a compromised airway. Deep breathing can imply a normal respiratory function but does not definitively confirm that the airway is open because the individual could be in a state of respiratory distress. Difficulty speaking can also suggest some level of obstruction or weakness in airflow, which would indicate a potential issue with the airway.

Thus, the soft moaning is the clearest indicator that the person is able to generate sound through the vocal cords, confirming that the airway is likely open and functioning properly.