What is the role of the dental nurse in airway management during a medical emergency?

• A. Recognize airway compromise early; assist with positioning; clear airway; suction; give oxygen; be ready to call for advanced help
• B. Focus solely on taking notes
• C. Leave airway management to the dentist with no input
• D. Only perform CPR

Answer: (A)

Airway management in a dental emergency is an active, time‑critical team task. The dental nurse should act to prevent hypoxia by recognizing signs of airway compromise early and taking steps that keep the airway open and oxygenating the patient while advanced help is on the way.

Start by spotting trouble quickly: if the patient is unable to speak, shows signs of laboured breathing, gurgling, blue lips, or reduced consciousness, treat it as an airway issue. Then help with positioning to maximize airway patency. For a patient without spinal injury, this often means a safe head tilt and chin lift to open the airway; if spinal injury is suspected, use a jaw thrust to minimize neck movement while still opening the airway.

Next, clear the airway as needed. Suction to remove saliva, secretions, blood, or vomitus is essential to prevent obstruction and improve ventilation. After clearing the airway, administer oxygen to improve oxygen delivery to tissues, using the appropriate device and maintaining a high concentration if possible until help arrives.

Be ready to call for advanced help as soon as airway compromise is identified. Stay with the patient, monitor breathing and consciousness, and be prepared to assist with further airway or resuscitation measures as directed by the dental team or emergency responders.

This approach reflects the nurse’s active role in maintaining airway patency and oxygenation, rather than leaving airway management to others, or focusing solely on CPR or notes.