What action should be taken if a patient is found to have stridor?

Stridor is typically a sign of upper airway obstruction, which can be life-threatening. When a patient presents with stridor, it indicates that there is potentially significant swelling or a blockage in the airway that could impede breathing.

Initiating immediate airway intervention is critical because the stridor signifies that the airway may be compromised, and the patient may be at risk of respiratory distress or failure. Depending on the severity of the obstruction, this could involve techniques such as suctioning, positioning, or, in severe cases, advanced interventions like intubation or cricothyrotomy if the airway is severely obstructed.

The other options do not address the immediate threat posed by stridor. Administering pain relief does not resolve the airway challenge and could obscure assessment of the patient's responsiveness. Obtaining a medical history is essential in many situations but is not a priority in the face of a potential airway emergency. Providing supplemental oxygen may help with oxygenation but does not alleviate the underlying issue of airway obstruction. The urgency of addressing airway issues makes initiating immediate airway intervention the most appropriate action.