If an unresponsive patient does not have a gag reflex, an OPA

• A. Should never be used
• B. Only if patient is breathing
• C. If unresponsive without gag reflex, do not use OPA
• D. Should be inserted whether the patient is breathing or not

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is keeping an unprotected airway open in an unconscious patient. When someone is unresponsive and lacks a gag reflex, the tongue and relaxed throat muscles can block the airway, making breathing difficult. An oropharyngeal airway acts as a spacer that keeps the tongue from occluding the airway, helping air pass through more easily.

Because the gag reflex is absent, inserting the device is appropriate and helps regardless of whether the patient is breathing on their own or requires assistance. It sets up a clear airway for either spontaneous breathing or for ventilation with a bag-mask device. The other options imply you wouldn’t use it in this situation or would use it only under certain breathing conditions, which isn’t correct given the loss of airway protection in an unresponsive patient.