When should an airway adjunct be placed?

An airway adjunct should be placed when the patient's level of consciousness is diminished. This is because a diminished level of consciousness can lead to decreased or absent airway reflexes, increasing the risk of airway obstruction. By using an airway adjunct, such as an oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, you can help maintain a patent airway, ensuring that air can flow into the lungs effectively. This action is essential for patients who are unable to protect their airway due to altered mental status, whether from injury, illness, or intoxication.

In scenarios where a patient is conscious and able to maintain their own airway, the use of an adjunct may not be necessary. Therefore, recognizing the importance of airway management in patients with diminished consciousness is crucial for preventing complications such as hypoxia and respiratory failure.