If there is severe swelling around the glottis, what should the therapist recommend?

When faced with severe swelling around the glottis, the primary concern is ensuring that the airway remains patent and that the patient is able to breathe effectively. Intubation is the appropriate recommendation in this scenario because it allows for direct access to the airway, bypassing any obstructions caused by the swelling. This intervention can also provide a secure airway for ventilation, which is critical when there is a risk of respiratory distress or failure due to edema in that area.

The procedure involves inserting a tube into the trachea through the mouth or nose to establish an airway. This is often performed in emergencies where immediate airway control is necessary, such as in cases of angioedema or anaphylaxis.

While tracheostomy may also serve as a method to secure an airway, it is a more invasive procedure typically reserved for situations where a longer-term airway solution is needed or when intubation is not feasible. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is often used to manage conditions like obstructive sleep apnea or pulmonary edema, and bronchodilators are primarily for treating bronchospasm associated with conditions such as asthma or COPD, rather than directly addressing glottic swelling. Thus, intubation remains the safest and most effective immediate