When a patient self-extubates and stridor is audible, what is true about stridor?

• A. It is a high-pitched sound from the upper airway.
• B. It indicates severe asthma.
• C. It is created by coughing through an open stoma.
• D. It is often treated with heated aerosol therapy.

Answer: (A)

Stridor is indeed a high-pitched sound that occurs primarily during inhalation and is indicative of an obstruction in the upper airway. This sound is most commonly caused by conditions that narrow the airway, such as swelling of the tissues or foreign body obstruction. In the case of self-extubation, the presence of stridor suggests that there may be some degree of airway compromise due to edema or a partial obstruction following the removal of the endotracheal tube. Understanding the nature of stridor helps healthcare providers assess the severity of airway issues and determine the appropriate interventions.

The other choices do not accurately describe stridor in this context. While severe asthma can lead to wheezing and respiratory distress, stridor is not characteristic of asthma alone; stridor specifically points to upper airway issues. The mention of coughing through an open stoma does not relate to the typical presentation of stridor, and although heated aerosol therapy may be beneficial in certain conditions affecting the airway, it is not a primary treatment specifically indicated for stridor itself.