Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

Which method is acceptable for selecting an appropriately sized oropharyngeal airway (OPA)?

1. Measure from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the mandible

2. Measure from the ear to the nose

3. Measure from the chin to the collarbone

4. Measure from the shoulder to the elbow

The correct answer is: Measure from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the mandible

The correct method for selecting an appropriately sized oropharyngeal airway (OPA) is to measure from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the mandible. This measurement is crucial because it ensures that the airway is long enough to extend from the back of the throat to the pharynx without causing obstruction or trauma. An OPA that is too short may not properly clear the airway, while one that is too long can cause injury to the larynx or esophagus. Using this anatomical landmark provides a reliable and effective way to fit the airway device to the patient's size and facial structure. It is essential for effective ventilation and patient safety, so understanding this measurement is vital for healthcare providers engaged in managing airway obstruction in emergencies. Other measurement methods, although they may pertain to airway sizing in different contexts, do not provide the specific landmarks needed for proper OPA sizing. Thus, the corner of the mouth to the angle of the mandible is the standard and accepted technique for ensuring that the oropharyngeal airway is appropriately fitted.