Question

Are all LMAs supraglottic?

A) Yes, always
B) No, some are infraglottic
C) It depends on the patient's age
D) Only in emergency situations

Answer 1

All Laryngeal Mask Airways (LMAs) are indeed supraglottic. They are designed to sit above the glottis and do not depend on the patient's age or emergency conditions. LMAs are used as an alternative to endotracheal intubation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked if all Laryngeal Mask Airways (LMAs) are supraglottic. The answer to this question is A) Yes, always. LMAs are a type of airway management device that is designed to sit above the glottis, hence falling under the category of supraglottic airway devices. In contrast, infraglottic devices would be those that go below the vocal cords, such as endotracheal tubes. LMAs are used as an alternative to endotracheal intubation, especially in situations where it might be difficult or in emergency settings when intubation is not feasible. The design and function of an LMA inherently make it a supraglottic device, and this does not change with the patient's age or outside of emergency situations.