4.

The Recovery Position (*)

 This position aids the maintenance of a clear airway and reduces risk
of aspiration
 Only for spontaneously breathing unconscious patients
 Contraindicated for patients with spinal injury

II Airway Adjuncts

1. Insertion of Oropharyngeal Airway (*)

 a curved plastic tube to prevent backward
displacement of tongue
 Different sizes (000-4);
Correct size: from incisors to angle of
mandible
 If patient still conscious, may induce
vomiting and aspiration; nasopharyngeal
airway more tolerable

Two placement techniques:

1. Depressing the tongue with a spatula and then slide in the airway
2. Insert the lubricated airway inverted and then rotating it via 180° as it
passes over the palate