An adult trauma patient is making gurgling sounds during respirations. What is the appropriate response?

When an adult trauma patient is making gurgling sounds during respirations, this typically indicates the presence of secretions or fluid in the airway that could obstruct airflow. The appropriate response in this situation is to log roll the patient to their side and suction the airway. This maneuver helps to clear any obstructions from the airway, allowing for better ventilation and oxygenation.

Positioning the patient on their side is crucial as it facilitates drainage of any secretions and reduces the risk of aspiration, while suctioning helps to physically remove any mucus, blood, or other materials that may be causing the gurgling sounds. This intervention is critical because maintaining a clear and patent airway is foundational to effective emergency care, especially in trauma situations where airway compromise can quickly lead to respiratory failure.

Providing oxygen therapy or administering a bronchodilator may be necessary after the airway has been cleared, but these actions do not address the immediate concern of airway obstruction. Therefore, these responses are not the best course of action in this particular situation.