Question

In the patient who is unconscious or has a decreased level of consciousness, posterior displacement of the tongue is

A. likely to enhance breathing
B. essential for maintaining an open airway
C. a potential obstruction to the airway
D. inconsequential to breathing patterns

Answer 1

In an unconscious or semi-conscious patient, posterior displacement of the tongue can obstruct the airway. General anesthesia relaxes muscles necessary for breathing and tongue movement, necessitating interventions such as endotracheal intubation to keep the airway open.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a patient who is unconscious or has a decreased level of consciousness, posterior displacement of the tongue is a potential obstruction to the airway. This condition can be critical because under general anesthesia, the muscles necessary for breathing and moving the tongue are relaxed. The tongue can then relax and block the airway, which is why endotracheal intubation is often used to maintain an open airway during surgery. Post-surgery, as consciousness is regained and the control of respiration returns to the patient, the risk of airway obstruction by the tongue decreases.