In the airway management plan progression, which device corresponds to Plan D?

In the airway management plan progression, which device corresponds to Plan D?

• A. Endotracheal intubation
• B. Bag-valve-mask ventilation
• C. Positioning and oxygen
• D. Supraglottic airway

Answer: (D)

Airway management during procedural sedation uses a staged progression from less to more invasive methods to keep ventilation and oxygenation secure. After optimizing positioning and delivering oxygen, and after attempting bag-valve-mask ventilation as needed, the next step in this sequence is to place a supraglottic airway. A supraglottic device sits above the vocal cords and provides a reliable seal to ventilate the lungs quickly without entering the trachea. It’s faster and less invasive than endotracheal intubation, making it the practical choice at this stage to secure ventilation while planning the next move or if intubation proves difficult. Endotracheal intubation remains available as a more definitive option if ventilation cannot be maintained with a supraglottic device or if airway risk dictates it.

Airway management during procedural sedation uses a staged progression from less to more invasive methods to keep ventilation and oxygenation secure. After optimizing positioning and delivering oxygen, and after attempting bag-valve-mask ventilation as needed, the next step in this sequence is to place a supraglottic airway. A supraglottic device sits above the vocal cords and provides a reliable seal to ventilate the lungs quickly without entering the trachea. It’s faster and less invasive than endotracheal intubation, making it the practical choice at this stage to secure ventilation while planning the next move or if intubation proves difficult. Endotracheal intubation remains available as a more definitive option if ventilation cannot be maintained with a supraglottic device or if airway risk dictates it.