Identify the procedure demonstrated in the video:

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

The image displays a curved, rigid plastic device being inserted into a patient's mouth, which is characteristic of a Guedel's oropharyngeal airway (OPA).
The arrow illustrates a 180-degree rotation, which is the standard technique for inserting an OPA to displace the tongue and prevent it from obstructing the airway.
This procedure is specifically performed on unconscious patients to maintain a patent airway.
The combination of the device's appearance and the insertion technique makes 'Guedel's airway insertion' the most accurate description.

Option A: Endotracheal intubation is a more invasive procedure that involves placing a tube directly into the trachea, usually with the aid of a laryngoscope. The device and technique shown are different.
Option C: A Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) is a supraglottic device with a soft, inflatable mask that seals over the laryngeal opening. The device in the image is a rigid, curved tube, not an LMA.
Option D: 'Oropharyngeal airway' describes the category of the device, not the specific procedure being performed. 'Guedel's airway insertion' is a more precise and complete answer describing the action.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Airway management and the use of basic airway adjuncts as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A critical nursing assessment before inserting an OPA is to check for a gag reflex. Inserting an OPA in a patient with an intact gag reflex can induce vomiting and aspiration, which is a life-threatening complication.
Proper sizing is essential for patient safety. An OPA that is too large can obstruct the larynx, while one that is too small will not effectively displace the tongue. The correct size is measured from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the jaw.
What if the patient is semi-conscious or begins to regain consciousness with the OPA in place? The nurse must immediately remove the OPA to prevent gagging and aspiration. A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) may be considered as an alternative as it is better tolerated in patients with a gag reflex.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the image to identify the equipment being used. Note its shape (curved), material (rigid plastic), and where it is being placed (the mouth).
Next, observe the action being performed. The image shows insertion into the mouth combined with a rotational movement, indicated by the arrow.
Recognize that this specific device is a Guedel's airway and the technique is its standard insertion procedure.
Evaluate the given options. 'Endotracheal intubation' and 'Laryngeal mask airway insertion' involve different devices and are incorrect.
Differentiate between 'Guedel's airway insertion' and 'Oropharyngeal airway'. The former describes the specific procedure, while the latter describes the device category. Since the question asks to identify the procedure, the more specific answer is the best choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 3 p. 115-117

Practise the full Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

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