Which item is specifically used to assess airway alignment during Bedside Assessment Level 2 (Palpation/ Percussion)?

• A. Pulse
• B. Temp
• C. Tracheal position
• D. Diagnostic chest percussion

Answer: (C)

Airway alignment is assessed by checking the tracheal position. During Bedside Assessment Level 2, palpation focuses on where the trachea sits and whether it remains midline. A trachea that stays centered indicates proper airway alignment, while deviation suggests a shift from a mass effect, pneumothorax, or other lung/t mediastinal issue that needs attention. The other options don’t directly indicate airway alignment: pulse tells you about perfusion, temperature about infection or inflammation, and diagnostic chest percussion helps describe underlying tissue but not the alignment of the airway.