Airway Management: Anatomy and Support Methods

What is the triangular space formed between the vocal cords called?

Which method is used to relieve airway obstruction by moving the tongue anteriorly with the mandible?

In which patient is oropharyngeal airway contraindicated?

What is the indication for using a nasopharyngeal airway?

What is the key point to be aware of during the insertion of a nasopharyngeal airway?

What is the recommended rate of chest compressions per minute during adult CPR?

What is the first step in the approach to safely perform CPR?

What is the recommended ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths during adult CPR?

At what depth should chest compressions be performed during adult CPR?

What is the next step after performing chest compressions and rescue breaths in adult CPR?

What is the primary advantage of using a bougie over an endotracheal tube?

What is the main purpose of a stylet when used in conjunction with an endotracheal tube?

What is the essential function of a laryngoscope during intubation?

Which airway instrument is characterized by different sizes, shapes, and flexibility, and may have a central lumen for oxygenation?

What is the significant advantage of using a direct laryngoscope with a curved plate (Macintosh) over a straight plate (Miller) for intubation?

Airway Management

The triangular space formed between the vocal cords is called the glottic opening.

Oropharyngeal Airway

The oropharyngeal airway is used to relieve airway obstruction by moving the tongue anteriorly with the mandible through a jaw-thrust maneuver.

Contraindications

Oropharyngeal airway is contraindicated in patients with a suspected spinal cord injury or base of skull fracture.

Nasopharyngeal Airway

The indication for using a nasopharyngeal airway is in patients with a partially obstructed airway or those who require a short-term airway adjunct.
The key point to be aware of during the insertion of a nasopharyngeal airway is to lubricate it well and insert it through the nostril perpendicular to the face.

CPR

The recommended rate of chest compressions per minute during adult CPR is 100-120 compressions per minute.
The first step in the approach to safely perform CPR is to call for help and start compressions.
The recommended ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths during adult CPR is 30:2.
Chest compressions should be performed to a depth of at least 2 inches during adult CPR.
After performing chest compressions and rescue breaths in adult CPR, the next step is to continue the cycle.
The primary advantage of using a bougie over an endotracheal tube is that it can be used as a guide for intubation.
The main purpose of a stylet when used in conjunction with an endotracheal tube is to provide rigidity and shape to the tube.
The essential function of a laryngoscope during intubation is to visualize the glottic opening.

Airway Instruments

The airway instrument characterized by different sizes, shapes, and flexibility, and may have a central lumen for oxygenation is the bougie.
The significant advantage of using a direct laryngoscope with a curved plate (Macintosh) over a straight plate (Miller) for intubation is that it allows for better visualization of the glottic opening.

Test your knowledge of airway anatomy and methods of supporting airways with this quiz. Topics include nasal passages, pharyngeal airway, glottic opening, and non-definitive and definitive airway management methods.