Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common complication of facial trauma?

1. Airway obstruction

2. Sepsis

3. Fractured ribs

4. Cardiovascular shock

The correct answer is: Airway obstruction

Airway obstruction is a common complication of facial trauma due to the anatomical structures involved and the potential for swelling, bleeding, or displacement of bone fragments. Injuries to the face can cause significant damage to the soft tissues, including the nasal passages and throat, which can lead to inflammation and blockage of the airway. Additionally, facial fractures, particularly of the jaw or maxilla, can further compromise airway patency by misaligning the structure and obstructing airflow. The other options, while they may occur in trauma cases, are less directly related to facial injuries. Sepsis is a systemic infection that can develop from various types of injuries but is not an immediate complication specific to facial trauma. Fractured ribs are more associated with chest trauma rather than facial trauma. Cardiovascular shock can occur in severe trauma cases, but it is not a direct complication of injuries to the facial region specifically. Understanding the primary concern of airway management in the context of facial injuries is crucial, making airway obstruction the most pertinent complication in this scenario.