Rigid plastic airway that prevents tongue-based obstruction in an unconscious patient.
Indications
- • Unconscious patient without gag reflex
- • Adjunct during BMV
Contraindications
- ⚠ Intact gag reflex (may induce vomiting)
Equipment
- • OPA sized nose-corner to ear lobe (adult)
- • Tongue depressor (peds)
- • Suction
Positioning
- • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.
Consent
- • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
- • Explain risks & complications
- • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
- • Document consent
Universal precautions
- • Hand hygiene
- • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
- • Aseptic technique
- • Sharps safety
- • Verify patient identity & site
Step-by-step (0/4)
Tap to complete
Measure from corner of mouth to angle of mandible.
Immediate complications
- ⚠ Vomiting/aspiration if gag intact
- ⚠ Trauma to teeth/palate
- ⚠ Worsened obstruction if wrong size
Recognition
- • Gagging
- • Bleeding
Initial management
- • Remove immediately
- • Suction
Prevention
- • Confirm no gag
- • Size correctly
Post-procedure observation
- • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly
Monitoring
- • Site inspection
- • Symptom review
Documentation
- • Procedure note
- • Consent
- • Findings
Patient instructions
- • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms
Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.
