For inhalation injury, which statement best summarizes the recommended initial management?

• A. Early airway assessment and plan for potential intubation; high-flow oxygen and humidified air.
• B. Prioritize intact mobility and avoid oxygen therapy.
• C. Provide only humidified air without oxygen.
• D. Delay any airway planning until there is no edema.

Answer: (C)

Airway protection and oxygenation are the priority because inhalation injury can cause rapid airway edema and obstruction. The best initial management is to assess the airway early and have a plan for possible intubation, while simultaneously delivering high-flow oxygen with humidified air. This approach supports adequate oxygenation, keeps airway mucosa moist to reduce irritation, and reduces the risk of sudden airway collapse as swelling progresses. Providing humidified air alone without sufficient oxygen won’t meet the patient’s oxygen needs and may allow hypoxia to develop. Delaying airway planning until edema is already present can make intubation more difficult or impossible, increasing the risk of respiratory failure. In practice, look for signs of airway compromise such as hoarseness, stridor, facial burns, soot around the nose or mouth, or singed nasal hairs, and lean toward early airway management when these are present.