NBRC Airway Management

Question 1

Which laryngoscope blade is inserted into the vallecula (space between the epiglottis and base of tongue)?

Accepted Answer

Macintosh (curved) blade

Answer

The Macintosh (curved) blade is placed in the vallecula, and lifting indirectly elevates the epiglottis to expose the glottis.

Question 2

The correct endotracheal tube position is confirmed by all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Presence of a cuff pilot balloon

Answer

A cuff pilot balloon confirms cuff inflation but does NOT confirm correct tracheal positioning; only assessment of ventilation and capnography confirm proper tube placement.

Question 3

The appropriate depth of insertion for an oral endotracheal tube in an average adult male is approximately:

Accepted Answer

23 cm at the lips

Answer

Oral ETT depth of approximately 23 cm at the teeth/lips places the tube tip about 3–5 cm above the carina in most adult males.

Question 4

Which airway device is considered a supraglottic (extraglottic) airway?

Accepted Answer

Laryngeal mask airway (LMA)

Answer

The LMA sits above the glottis in the hypopharynx and forms a seal around the laryngeal inlet, classifying it as a supraglottic airway device.

Question 5

Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) uses a sedative agent followed immediately by a neuromuscular blocking agent to:

Accepted Answer

Minimize time to intubation and reduce aspiration risk

Answer

RSI rapidly achieves sedation and paralysis to minimize apnea time and intubation attempts, thereby reducing the risk of pulmonary aspiration.

NBRC - National Board for Respiratory Care Practice Test

NBRC - National Board for Respiratory Care Practice Test

NBRC Airway Management