What is a supraglottic airway device and when is it used in EMS?

• A. A device placed above the glottis (e.g., King LT, LMA) used when BVM ventilation is inadequate or prolonged airway management is needed
• B. A device placed below the glottis for rapid intubation
• C. A device used after tracheostomy
• D. A device used only for pediatric patients

Answer: (A)

A supraglottic airway sits above the vocal cords and delivers ventilation without entering the trachea. In EMS, it’s used when bag-valve-mask ventilation is inadequate or when you anticipate needing to manage the airway for longer before a definitive airway can be secured. It provides a quicker, less invasive bridge to ventilation during CPR or when intubation is difficult or not immediately feasible. Examples include devices like the King LT and the laryngeal mask airway. It is not placed below the glottis (that would be endotracheal intubation) and it’s not restricted to pediatric patients.