Identify the item in the image below?& x20;

AIIMS Delhi NO - 2018

Nursing Foundation

Easy

Identify the item in the image below?

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO - 2018

The device shown in the image is an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA), also known as a Guedel airway.
It is identifiable by its rigid, J-shaped plastic construction, a flange that rests against the lips to prevent it from being swallowed, and a central channel for air passage.
The primary function of an OPA is to maintain a patent airway by holding the tongue away from the posterior pharyngeal wall.
It is specifically designed for use in deeply unconscious patients who have no gag reflex.

Option B: An NPA (Nasopharyngeal Airway) is a soft, flexible tube inserted through the nostril. The device in the image is rigid and designed for oral insertion.
Option C: An LMA (Laryngeal Mask Airway) is a more advanced supraglottic airway device with an inflatable cuff that seals around the laryngeal inlet. The device in the image is a simple airway adjunct.
Option D: IGAM is not a standard or recognized acronym for any medical airway device.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification and function of basic airway adjuncts as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Correctly sizing an OPA is a critical nursing skill. An OPA that is too large can obstruct the larynx, while one that is too small can push the tongue back and worsen the obstruction.
Nurses must always assess for a gag reflex before attempting to insert an OPA. If present, the attempt must be aborted immediately to prevent vomiting and aspiration.
What if? If an unconscious patient begins to regain consciousness or develop a gag reflex while an OPA is in place, the nurse's immediate action should be to remove the airway to prevent complications.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the image to identify the key physical characteristics of the object. Note its shape (J-curve), material (rigid plastic), and features (flange, central channel).
Next, recall the different types of basic airway adjuncts and their defining features.
Compare the features observed in the image with the characteristics of each option provided.
The device is rigid and meant for the mouth, which matches the description of an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA).
Eliminate the other options. An NPA is soft and for the nose. An LMA is a more complex device with a mask. IGAM is not a standard term.
Confirm your choice based on the direct match between the visual evidence and the definition of an OPA.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 4 p. 254-255

Practise the full AIIMS Delhi NO - 2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.