Oropharyngeal airway (OPA) is used for which patient condition?

• A. Suction catheter used for conscious patients
• B. Oropharyngeal airway for unconscious patient without gag reflex
• C. Endotracheal tube for ventilation
• D. Nasal airway for conscious patients

Answer: (B)

An oropharyngeal airway is used to keep the airway open by preventing the tongue from occluding the pharynx in an unconscious patient who lacks a gag reflex. When someone is unresponsive, the tongue can fall back and block the airway; the OPA acts as a stent to maintain a path for air and helps ventilation until a definitive airway is secured. It should not be used in a conscious patient or in anyone with an intact gag reflex because insertion can trigger gagging, coughing, or vomiting and increase the risk of aspiration. It is not a substitute for an endotracheal tube, nor is it appropriate for patients who require a nasal airway.