US-Army-IS-0825-medical-course-Combat-Lifesaver-Course-0825CC1

LESSON 21
INSERT AN OROPHARYNGEAL AIRWAY
IN AN UNCONSCIOUS CASUALTY
TASK
Identify the procedures for inserting and maintaining an oropharyngeal airway in an
unconscious casualty.
CONDITIONS
Given multiple-choice items pertaining to the oropharyngeal airway (J-tube) and its use.
STANDARD
Score 70 or more points on the 100-point written examination.
REFERENCES
STP 8-91B15-SM-TG, MOS 91B Medical Specialist
21-1. INTRODUCTION
One of the basic tasks of the combat lifesaver is to restore and maintain respiration
(breathing). When the casualty is unconscious, there is always a danger his tongue will
slide to the back of his throat and block his airway. This situation can be prevented by
inserting an oropharyngeal airway. The airway is a hollow tube through which air can freely
pass in and out. The oropharyngeal airway (also called the oral pharyngeal airway or
artificial airway) in the aid bag resembles the letter "J" and is often referred to as the
J-tube.
21-2. IDENTIFY WHEN THE OROPHARYNGEAL AIRWAY IS USED
The oropharyngeal airway is only used with an unconscious casualty and only if the casualty
is breathing on his own (casualty never stopped breathing or breathing was restored). Be
aware of or suspect spinal injury in an unconscious casualty and maintain in-line stability if
an oropharyngeal airway is used.
WARNING
Do not insert the oropharyngeal airway if the casualty is conscious or
semiconscious since the casualty may still have a gag reflex. If the airway
causes the casualty to gag, he may vomit and inhale some of the vomitus.
Remove the airway anytime the casualty regains consciousness or begins
to gag.
IS0825 21-1