Airway Management Flashcards

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

Answer: Macintosh (curved) blade

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

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

Answer: Presence of a cuff pilot balloon

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

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

Answer: 23 cm at the lips

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.

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

Answer: Laryngeal mask airway (LMA)

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

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

Answer: Minimize time to intubation and reduce aspiration risk

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

Cricothyrotomy provides emergency surgical airway access through the:

Answer: Cricothyroid membrane

Cricothyrotomy is performed through the cricothyroid membrane, the preferred emergency access site because of its surface anatomy and vascularity.