Question

What are indications for inserting a laryngeal mask? (SATA)

a) NB has congenital anomalies involving mouth, lip, tongue, palate, or neck
b) A self-inflating bag is not available
c) You cannot intubate
d) NB has a large tongue
e) You cannot ventilate
f) NP has a small mandible

Answer 1

Indications for inserting a laryngeal mask include congenital facial anomalies, inability to intubate or ventilate, and anatomical features like a large tongue or small mandible that interfere with breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The indications for inserting a laryngeal mask include several situations, such as when a newborn (NB) has congenital anomalies that involve the mouth, lip, tongue, palate, or neck, when intubation – inserting a tube through the mouth down into the airway – is not possible (e.g., you cannot intubate or ventilate), or when specific anatomical challenges are present, such as a large tongue or a small mandible. These challenges may impede normal breathing or the ability to ventilate effectively using standard methods. Hence, using a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) could be essential in facilitating an open airway to sustain adequate gas exchange and ventilation during anesthesia or respiratory distress when other techniques are unsuccessful or contraindicated.