Usage Methods for Oropharyngeal Airways
1. Indications
- Upper airway obstruction caused by tongue falling backward.
- Increased airway secretions requiring suction.
- Protection of the tongue and teeth during seizures or convulsions.
- Serving as a bite block during endotracheal intubation.
2. Procedure
(1)Preparation
- Patient assessment: Check consciousness, oral condition and cause of airway obstruction.
- Equipment: Select an appropriately sized airway (length should match the distance from the patient's incisors to the mandibular angle or earlobe), tongue depressor, gloves, gauze, and adhesive tape.
(2)Insertion Techniques
- Reverse Insertion Method (Recommended):
1. Position the patient supine with the head tilted back; clear oral secretions.
2. Insert the airway concave side upward along the tongue until near the posterior pharyngeal wall (past the uvula).
3. Rotate the airway 180°to position the concave side downward, then advance it to the base of the tongue.
4. Confirm placement: Check airflow (feel exhalation with your hand or observe cotton movement) and auscultate for symmetrical breath sounds.
- Direct Insertion Method: Advance the airway along the tongue until the tip rests between the base of the tongue and the posterior pharyngeal wall.
(3)Securing the Airway
- Traditional method: Cross-tape the flange to both cheeks (may loosen with moisture).
- Improved method: Punch holes in the flange and secure with a band around the neck (ideal for patients with adhesive allergies).