Final answer:
The correct option is b) epiglottis. The tip of a Miller blade is placed directly under the epiglottis during intubation, which allows for a clear view of the vocal cords for the placement of an endotracheal tube.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tip of a Miller blade is placed directly under the epiglottis during intubation. Unlike the Macintosh blade that is placed in the vallecula to indirectly lift the epiglottis, the Miller blade is designed to lift the epiglottis directly, which provides a clear view of the vocal cords and glottis for the insertion of an endotracheal tube.
The epiglottis is a flexible piece of elastic cartilage covering the trachea opening and resting on the glottis when in the closed position, which includes the vocal cords and the space between them. During intubation, skilled manipulation of the Miller blade provides the necessary visualization of the airway structures to safely place the endotracheal tube.