# Oropharyngeal Airway Device Insertion

## Overview

This module describes how to insert an oropharyngeal airway device (OPA or Guedel airway) to maintain an open airway in a patient with impaired consciousness.

## Indications

## Contraindications

## Patient information and consent

This procedure is usually done as an emergency measure with an unconscious patient. However, it may be explained to family members afterwards.

### How do I explain this procedure?

“I had to put a short tube in the patient’s mouth, into their throat, to keep it open for breathing. This is not uncomfortable for them while they are not awake.”

## Preparation

### Documentation

### Equipment

## Site & Positioning

The patient should be lying on their back.

## Procedure

Follow medical asepsis with non-sterile gloves.

## Troubleshooting

I think the patient is choking.

Remove the airway device. If the patient is conscious enough to have a gag reflex, the airway device is contraindicated. Consider using an NPA.

The patient is biting down.

Don’t use an OPA as a bite block — provide more sedation and analgesia.

## Risks

## References