Ryanair Initial Practice Exam

What is a potential danger of unconsciousness?

1. The casualty can communicate

2. The tongue may relax and block the airway

3. The casualty can swallow safely

4. The airway remains open

The correct answer is: The tongue may relax and block the airway

The potential danger of unconsciousness primarily stems from the risk of airway obstruction, which is accurately highlighted in the correct response. When a person becomes unconscious, their body loses muscle control, including the muscles that keep the airway open. One significant consequence of this relaxation is that the tongue can fall back against the throat, which can obstruct airflow and lead to suffocation. This situation demands immediate attention, as an obstructed airway can result in inadequate oxygen supply to the brain and other vital organs, leading to serious complications or even death. Therefore, understanding the relationship between unconsciousness and potential airway obstructions is critical in emergency situations where rapid interventions may be necessary to ensure the casualty can breathe properly. In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the dangers associated with unconsciousness. The ability to communicate or swallow safely diminishes significantly when a person is unconscious, and an unconscious individual typically cannot maintain an open airway independently.