What observation suggests airway obstruction when the jaw thrust is released?

• A. Gurgling is heard when jaw thrust is released
• B. Stridor is heard when jaw thrust is released
• C. No snoring is heard when jaw thrust is released
• D. Snoring is heard when jaw thrust is released

Answer: (D)

When assessing airway patency after releasing the jaw thrust, listen for signs of partial airway collapse. Snoring occurs when soft tissues in the oropharynx vibrate as air passes, indicating that the airway is becoming obstructed once the forward jaw position is removed. This makes snoring the best indicator of airway obstruction in this scenario. Gurgling points to secretions in the airway rather than simple tissue collapse, stridor suggests a higher, more acute obstruction at the larynx or trachea, and no snoring would imply the airway is clear. So hearing snoring when the jaw thrust is released signals partial airway obstruction from soft-tissue collapse.