Airway Management Techniques

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step in managing airway obstruction?

Checking for pulse

Jaw thrust maneuver

Insertion of oropharyngeal airway

Extension of the head with neck flexion (correct)

What does the jaw thrust maneuver help achieve?

Closing the airway

Inserting the oropharyngeal airway

Lifting the tongue and epiglottis

Displacing the tongue from the palate (correct)

What material is an oropharyngeal airway typically made from?

Metal, plastic, or hard rubber (correct)

Glass

Silicone

Foam

What is one of the functions of an oropharyngeal airway?

Lifting the tongue and epiglottis Signup and view all the answers

How can the size of an oropharyngeal airway be estimated for a patient?

Length corresponding to incisor and angle of the jaw Signup and view all the answers

During which situations is airway obstruction most commonly seen?

At induction or recovery from anesthesia Signup and view all the answers

What action should follow if airway obstruction is not relieved after the initial maneuvers?

Insert an oropharyngeal airway Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding airway obstruction management?

It is not a critical issue to address immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible consequence of using an airway that is too small?

Kinking of the tongue Signup and view all the answers

Which insertion technique helps minimize pushing the tongue backward and downward when using an airway?

Rotating the airway through 180° Signup and view all the answers

What is a contraindication for using an oropharyngeal airway?

Patient with an intact gag reflex Signup and view all the answers

What materials are commonly used in the construction of nasopharyngeal airways?

Plastic, polyurethane, or latex rubber Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary use for a nasopharyngeal airway?

To facilitate suctioning Signup and view all the answers

During the insertion of a nasopharyngeal airway, which end should be inserted first?

The bevel end Signup and view all the answers

What is a complication associated with an oropharyngeal airway?

Trauma to tissues during insertion Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when calculating the length of a nasopharyngeal airway for a patient?

Distance from the tip of the nose to the meatus of the ear Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Airway Management Techniques

Airway obstruction, even if temporary, is dangerous and needs immediate attention.
Obstruction frequently occurs at the start or end of anesthesia but can also happen at home.
Steps for Managing Airway Obstruction
- Head Extension & Jaw Thrust: Extend the head and pull up the lower jaw while flexing the neck (sniff position) to open the pharynx.
- Jaw Thrust: Place fingers on both sides of the lower jaw behind its angles and push upward while opening the mouth, keeping the head extended. This helps displace the tongue and free the airway.
- Oropharyngeal Airway Insertion: If the obstruction persists, insert an oropharyngeal airway.

Oropharyngeal Airway

A curved apparatus made of metal, plastic, or rubber, designed to maintain an open airway.
It has a flange at the proximal end (towards the mouth) to limit insertion depth and sometimes helps secure the airway.
Uses:
- Lifts the tongue and epiglottis away from the posterior pharyngeal wall preventing upper airway obstruction.
- Protects the tongue during biting and seizure activity.
- Facilitates oropharyngeal suctioning.
- Provides a better fit for mask ventilation.

Oropharyngeal Airway Insertion Technique

Select an airway size based on the distance between the patient's incisor and the angle of the jaw.
Lubricate the airway and insert it into the oral cavity on the opposite side of the tongue, as far as the junction between the head and soft palate.
Rotate the airway 180° and insert it further until it lies in the oropharynx. This rotation technique reduces the risk of pushing the tongue backward.

Oropharyngeal Airway Complications

Trauma to tissues during insertion.
Trauma to teeth, crowns, or caps if the patient bites on the airway.
Aspiration (no protection against aspiration).
Airway obstruction if the size is too small.
Laryngospasm if the size is too big.

Oropharyngeal Airway Contraindications

Do not use in a conscious patient with an intact gag reflex.
Avoid using it if a foreign body obstructs the airway.

Nasopharyngeal Airway

An alternative airway inserted through the nose.
Useful in patients with limited mouth opening or oral cavity pathology that makes an oral airway difficult.
Better tolerated in a semi-awake patient than an oral airway, and less likely to be displaced.
Made of soft plastic, polyurethane, or latex rubber with a fixed or adjustable flange at the proximal end and a beveled distal end.

Nasopharyngeal Airway Uses

Facilitates suctioning and acts as a guide for nasogastric tubes.
Used in semi-awake or awake patients.
Guide for a fiberscope and maintains ventilation during fiberoptic endoscopy.
Dilates the nasal passages for nasotracheal intubation.
Used in dental surgery.

Nasopharyngeal Airway Insertion Technique

Calculate the length needed by measuring the distance from the tip of the nose to the meatus of the ear.
Lubricate the entire length of the airway.
Insert the airway through the nares, beveled end first, holding it on the same side as the insertion.

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Description

This quiz explores crucial airway management techniques used to prevent and address airway obstruction. Learn the steps such as head extension, jaw thrust, and the insertion of oropharyngeal airways that are vital for maintaining an open airway. Understanding these methods is essential for both medical professionals and individuals responding to emergencies.