New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What is the primary function of the oropharyngeal airway?

1. To deliver oxygen

2. To keep the tongue away from the posterior pharyngeal wall

3. To aid in swallowing

4. To prevent aspiration

The correct answer is: To keep the tongue away from the posterior pharyngeal wall

The primary function of the oropharyngeal airway is to keep the tongue away from the posterior pharyngeal wall. This device is designed to maintain patency of the airway by preventing the tongue from obstructing the airway, which is a common issue, especially in unconscious patients. When an individual is unresponsive, the muscle tone of the tongue decreases, potentially causing it to fall back and block airflow. By keeping the tongue forward and off the airway, the oropharyngeal airway facilitates unobstructed breathing and allows medical personnel to provide ventilation if necessary. While the other options present relevant considerations in airway management, they do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of the oropharyngeal airway. For instance, while the device allows for potential delivery of oxygen indirectly by keeping the airway open, its main role is not to deliver oxygen itself. Similarly, aiding in swallowing and preventing aspiration may be important for certain airway devices, but these are secondary effects rather than the primary function of the oropharyngeal airway. Understanding this device's main objective is crucial for effective patient management in emergency situations.