Which device is an oropharyngeal airway?

• A. NPA
• B. OPA
• C. LMA
• D. King

Answer: (B)

An oropharyngeal airway is a simple mouthpiece that keeps the tongue from blocking the airway in an unconscious patient. It’s inserted through the mouth and rests in the oropharynx, preventing the tongue from occluding the airway so air can move in and out during ventilation. It’s used when a patient is not breathing adequately and does not have a gag reflex, because a conscious person or someone who gags could choke or vomit on it.

Sizing is important: you choose a size that fits from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the jaw (or the teeth to the back of the throat, depending on the sizing guide). Insertion is typically done with a slight rotation so the device slides over the tongue into place without pushing the tongue backward. If placed incorrectly, it can push the tongue toward the airway or cause gagging.

This device differs from a nasopharyngeal airway, which goes through the nose, and from supraglottic devices like the laryngeal mask or King airway, which seal above the vocal cords and are used when more secure ventilation is needed or mask ventilation is difficult.