An 81-year-old female experiences faint abdominal pain and vomiting during transport. What should you be prepared for?

An 81-year-old female experiences faint abdominal pain and vomiting during transport. What should you be prepared for?

• A. Seizures
• B. Chest pain
• C. Vomiting, so be ready to suction
• D. Shortness of breath

Answer: (C)

Vomiting during transport creates a real risk of aspiration, especially in an elderly patient whose airway protections may be diminished. The priority is to have suction ready so you can clear vomit immediately and prevent it from entering the airway. Keep the patient in a position that helps protect the airway and monitor for signs of airway compromise or respiratory deterioration, ready to assist ventilation if needed. The other issues listed aren’t the immediate concern here; the key safety step is prepared suction and airway management to prevent aspiration.

Vomiting during transport creates a real risk of aspiration, especially in an elderly patient whose airway protections may be diminished. The priority is to have suction ready so you can clear vomit immediately and prevent it from entering the airway. Keep the patient in a position that helps protect the airway and monitor for signs of airway compromise or respiratory deterioration, ready to assist ventilation if needed. The other issues listed aren’t the immediate concern here; the key safety step is prepared suction and airway management to prevent aspiration.