Which device is used to protect an unconscious patient's airway and prevent tongue obstruction?

Which device is used to protect an unconscious patient's airway and prevent tongue obstruction?

• A. Oropharyngeal airway
• B. Nasal cannula
• C. Venturi mask
• D. Nebulizer

Answer: (A)

Unconscious patients can have the tongue sag back and block the airway, so keeping the airway open is essential. An oropharyngeal airway is designed to hold the tongue away from the back of the throat, preserving patency and allowing easier ventilation with a bag-valve mask. It’s used in patients who are unconscious and not protecting their airway. The other devices—nasal cannula, venturi mask, and nebulizer—are focused on delivering oxygen or medications and do not prevent tongue obstruction, so they don’t address this specific airway-patency need.

Unconscious patients can have the tongue sag back and block the airway, so keeping the airway open is essential. An oropharyngeal airway is designed to hold the tongue away from the back of the throat, preserving patency and allowing easier ventilation with a bag-valve mask. It’s used in patients who are unconscious and not protecting their airway. The other devices—nasal cannula, venturi mask, and nebulizer—are focused on delivering oxygen or medications and do not prevent tongue obstruction, so they don’t address this specific airway-patency need.