NREMT Paramedic Practice

What is choanal atresia?

1. A blocked passage between the stomach and intestines

2. A connection between the esophagus and trachea

3. A bony or membrane occlusion blocking the nasal passage

4. An infection in the nasal cavity

The correct answer is: A bony or membrane occlusion blocking the nasal passage

Choanal atresia is characterized by a bony or membranous obstruction that blocks the nasal passage, specifically the choanae, which are the air passages that link the nasal cavity to the throat. This condition is notably present at birth and can significantly impact the infant's ability to breathe, as newborns primarily breathe through their noses. The blockage can be unilateral (affecting only one side) or bilateral (affecting both sides), leading to critical respiratory issues. When considering the other options, they describe different medical conditions unrelated to choanal atresia. A blocked passage between the stomach and intestines refers to a gastrointestinal obstruction, which affects the digestive system rather than respiratory function. A connection between the esophagus and trachea describes tracheoesophageal fistula, a congenital defect that affects swallowing and breathing but is not related to nasal passages. Lastly, an infection in the nasal cavity refers to sinusitis or rhinitis, which are inflammatory conditions rather than structural blockages like choanal atresia. Thus, the correct identification of choanal atresia as a blockage in the nasal passage aligns accurately with its definition and physiological consequences.