Prevention of Airway Obstruction - Postoperative
Mention two nursing measures to prevent Airway Obstruction in an immediately postoperative patient
Positioning the Patient
Rest and place the patient in a lateral position with the neck extended, if not contraindicated, and the arm supported with a pillow. This position promotes chest expansion and facilitates breathing and ventilation.
Oropharyngeal Airway
Keep airway in place until the patient is fully awake and tries to eject it. The airway is allowed to remain in place while the client is unconscious to keep the passage open and prevents the tongue from falling back
Maintain patient airway by head tilt, jaw hyperextension, oral pharyngeal airway.
Oropharyngeal Suction
Suction secretions as needed.
