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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true of the oropharyngeal airway?
A
It is inserted through the nose to reach the trachea.
B
It is primarily used to deliver oxygen directly into the lungs.
C
It is only used in conscious patients with an intact gag reflex.
D
It is used to keep the airway open by preventing the tongue from covering the epiglottis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of the oropharyngeal airway: It is a medical device used to maintain an open airway by preventing the tongue from obstructing the epiglottis, which could block airflow to the trachea.
Clarify the insertion method: The oropharyngeal airway is inserted through the mouth, not the nose, making the first statement incorrect.
Evaluate its primary use: The device does not deliver oxygen directly into the lungs; instead, it ensures the airway remains unobstructed for effective ventilation, ruling out the second statement.
Consider patient suitability: The oropharyngeal airway is only used in unconscious patients without a gag reflex, as inserting it in conscious patients could trigger gagging or vomiting, making the third statement incorrect.
Confirm the correct statement: The oropharyngeal airway is indeed used to keep the airway open by preventing the tongue from covering the epiglottis, which aligns with the fourth statement.