The distal tip of an oropharyngeal airway should rest in which location?

• A. Esophagus
• B. Laryngopharynx (lower part of the upper airway)
• C. Trachea
• D. Nasal cavity

Answer: (B)

Holding the tongue away from the back of the throat is the main job of an oropharyngeal airway, so the tip must sit in the part of the throat that continues to the esophagus and larynx. Placing the distal end in the laryngopharynx, the lower portion of the upper airway, behind the tongue and just above the voice box, keeps the airway open and allows air to reach the trachea. If the tip went into the esophagus or the trachea, or if it stayed too high in the nasal area, the device wouldn’t effectively maintain an open airway. So resting in the laryngopharynx is the correct placement.