EMT Paramedic

A comprehensive study of skills and knowledge needed for Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic certification exams.

Patient AssessmentAirway ManagementBasic Life Support (BLS)
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)Trauma ManagementPharmacology for Paramedics
Managing Medical EmergenciesPrehospital Child and Infant CareEffective Team Communication
Test-Taking Skills for EMT/Paramedic ExamsManaging Exam Stress
Patient AssessmentAirway ManagementBasic Life Support (...Advanced Cardiac Lif...Trauma ManagementPharmacology for Par...Managing Medical Eme...Prehospital Child an...Effective Team Commu...Test-Taking Skills f...Managing Exam Stress
Basic Concepts

Airway Management

Airway Management Techniques

Keeping a patient's airway open is the first priority in emergency care. Without an open airway, oxygen cannot reach the lungs and tissues.

Tools and Techniques

  • Manual Maneuvers: Head-tilt/chin-lift or jaw-thrust for trauma patients.
  • Adjuncts: Oropharyngeal (OPA) and nasopharyngeal (NPA) airways help keep the airway patent.
  • Suctioning: Removes obstructions like vomit or blood.
  • Advanced Airways: Endotracheal tubes and supraglottic devices for advanced providers.

Application in Emergencies

Airway compromise is common in trauma, cardiac arrest, and overdose. EMTs and paramedics must act quickly and confidently to secure the airway.

Best Practices

  • Always monitor for airway sounds like snoring or gurgling—they indicate obstruction.
  • Be ready to use suction to clear fluids.

Examples

  • A patient with a head injury is unresponsive and snoring; the EMT performs a jaw-thrust and inserts an OPA.

  • During a seizure, the paramedic suctions the airway to clear secretions and maintains oxygenation.

In a Nutshell

Airway management is essential for delivering oxygen and preventing further harm.

Key Terms

OPA
Oropharyngeal airway; a device inserted into the mouth to keep the airway open.
NPA
Nasopharyngeal airway; a tube inserted through the nose to maintain a patent airway.
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Basic Life Support (BLS)