Airway Obstruction and Tracheostomy

Question 1

Aetiology of Airway Compromise (7).

Answer 1

1. Angioedema.
2. Anaphylaxis.
3. Thermal Injury.
4. Neck Haematoma.
5. Wheeze.
6. Surgical Emphysema.
7. Reduced Consciousness.

Question 2

Simple Airway Manoeuvres (3).

Answer 2

1. Head Tilt / Chin Lift (Sniffing Position).
2. Jaw Thrust (Lift Mandible Forwards).
3. Suction - if visible vomit, blood, secretions, foreign body) *turn to side if actively vomiting.

Question 3

Types of Airway Adjuncts (4).

Answer 3

1. Oropharyngeal Airway.
2. Laryngeal Mask.
3. Tracheostomy.
4. Endotracheal Tube

Question 4

Features of Oropharyngeal Airway (3).

Answer 4

1. Often a bridge to a more definitive airway.
2. Ideal for temporary procedures.
3. No paralysis, easy to insert.

Question 5

Features of Laryngeal Mask (3).

Answer 5

1. Device inserted into pharynx to cover airway.
2. Poor control against gastric reflux and not suitable for high pressure ventilation.
3. No paralysis.

Question 6

Features of Tracheostomy (2).

Answer 6

1. Dries secretions so humidified air is usually required.

2. Reduces the work of breathing and dead space effect.

Question 7

Features of Endotracheal Tube (3).

Answer 7

1. Requires paralysis but can use high pressure ventilation.
2. Measure end tidal CO2 (error in insertion = oesophageal intubation).
3. Flexible Plastic Tube with Inflatable Cuff.