Using the DOPE acronym to correct an ineffective airway adjunct, what should be done for the 'O' (obstruction) assessment?

Using the DOPE acronym to correct an ineffective airway adjunct, what should be done for the 'O' (obstruction) assessment?

• A. Replace the airway device
• B. Suction the cricothyroidotomy airway
• C. Reposition the head
• D. Administer bronchodilator

Answer: (B)

Obstruction is addressed by clearing the blockage inside the airway device. When a definitive airway or adjunct isn’t functioning because the lumen is blocked by secretions, blood, or vomitus, suctioning through the airway to remove the obstruction is the immediate, best step. For a cricothyrotomy, this means suctioning to restore patency of the tube so air can pass again. Repositioning the head can help with general airway patency, but it doesn’t directly clear a blockage inside the airway device. If suctioning fails to relieve the obstruction, you would consider replacing or verifying the device. Bronchodilators treat airway smooth muscle constriction, not a mechanical blockage within the tube, so they’re not appropriate for an obstruction of the airway adjunct.

Obstruction is addressed by clearing the blockage inside the airway device. When a definitive airway or adjunct isn’t functioning because the lumen is blocked by secretions, blood, or vomitus, suctioning through the airway to remove the obstruction is the immediate, best step. For a cricothyrotomy, this means suctioning to restore patency of the tube so air can pass again.

Repositioning the head can help with general airway patency, but it doesn’t directly clear a blockage inside the airway device. If suctioning fails to relieve the obstruction, you would consider replacing or verifying the device. Bronchodilators treat airway smooth muscle constriction, not a mechanical blockage within the tube, so they’re not appropriate for an obstruction of the airway adjunct.