Alternative Airway Management: OPA vs. Jaw-Thrust

Oropharyngeal airway (OPA) or Guedel airway

- A rigid plastic tube that is inserted into the mouth and throat to help keep the airway open.

- It is more effective than the jaw-thrust technique in maintaining an open airway, especially in unconscious or sedated individuals.

- OPAs come in different sizes to fit different individuals, and they are typically measured in millimeters (mm) based on the internal diameter of the tube.

- The appropriate size OPA is selected based on the patient's age and weight.