You are called into a patient's room by the nurse because blood is spurting from the tracheostomy site,which was placed 2 weeks ago.The patient is receiving mechanical ventilatory support and has a history of liver failure and CHF.Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause?
A) Acute pulmonary edema
B) Rupture of the innominate artery
C) Pulmonary hemorrhage
D) Pneumothorax

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rupture of the innominate artery is a potentially serious airway complication and the mortality rate for this condition is high.It usually is seen in the first 3 weeks after a tracheostomy.The immediate indication is blood spurting from the tracheotomy site.

You Are Called into a Patient's Room by the Nurse