For orotracheal intubation, which head position is recommended?

• A. Sniffing position
• B. Supine with neck extension
• C. Prone
• D. Seated

Answer: (A)

Aligning the airway axes to get a clear line of sight to the vocal cords is the key idea. The sniffing position achieves this by flexing the neck and extending the head at the atlanto-occipital joint, which brings the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal axes into better alignment. A small pillow under the occiput helps achieve this posture, making direct laryngoscopy easier and the endotracheal tube placement smoother. Other positions don’t optimize this alignment or accessibility, so they hinder visualization and maneuverability during intubation.