Oropharyngeal Airway

UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED

Indications

Contraindications

Patient Factors & Considerations

The placement of an OPA MUST NOT interrupt effective compressions in Cardiac Arrest.

If the patient gags during the insertion of the oropharyngeal airway, remove immediately and be prepared to suction.
Paediatrics <6 years: insertion should be performed without twisting and should follow the natural curvature of the airway to prevent damage to the oropharynx.
Suspicion of traumatic injury: ensure spinal alignment and immobilisation of head and neck (jaw thrust method).

Procedure

All relevant infection control methods to be utilised.
Select the most appropriate OPA size by measuring from the centre of the lips to the angle of the mandible ^[1].

Place patient’s head in a neutral position.
Ensure airway is clear; suction if necessary.
Open the patient’s mouth using the cross finger method.
Orientate the OPA tip to the roof of the mouth, insert it approx. 1/3 of its length, then rotate it slowly to allow the tip to point downwards while gently pushing it into the airway^[2][3].
Progress the OPA gently into the mouth until the flange is resting on the lips^[4].
Ensure the tongue has not been inadvertently displaced into the back of the throat.