A patent airway is unobstructed and or not closed. It is the ability to inhale and exhale freely without surgical intervention.
Patent means open. So, if an airway is patent, it is open.
Nasal patentency refers to lack of nasal obstruction; a patent nostil means there is nothing occluding the airway like a nasal polyp --> nasal airway is clear is it is patent
When it is stated that the nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, glottic, and subglottic airway are grossly patent, it means that these areas of the airway are open and unobstructed, allowing for normal airflow. "Grossly patent" indicates that there are no visible blockages or abnormalities in these regions that would impede breathing. This assessment is typically part of a physical examination to evaluate the airways in a patient.
Airway adjunct that is a plastic tube with a flange on the end passed through the nostrils into your airway, so you can be ventilated if you have stopped breathing and access is limited via the mouth, for example in facial trauma. The nasopharyngeal airway is used if there are complications to having a patent airway.
Semi-Fowler's position it may help maintian a patent airway.
In the medical sense, a patent refers to a structure or passage in the body that is open and unobstructed. For example, a patent airway means that the airway is clear and allows for unimpeded airflow. This term is often used in medical contexts to describe the status of blood vessels, ducts, or other anatomical features critical for normal physiological function.
The surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the trachea through the neck and a tube or catheter is inserted into this opening in order to provide a passage way for air in the event that a persons' airway has been obstructed in someway, facilitating breathing.
A patent airway can be indicated by several findings, including the presence of clear and unobstructed breath sounds upon auscultation, the ability of the patient to speak in full sentences, and the absence of stridor or wheezing. Additionally, the patient should exhibit normal respiratory rate and effort, along with adequate oxygen saturation levels. If the patient is alert and responsive, it further suggests that the airway is open and functioning properly.
One of the biggest reasons to establish an oral-pharyngeal airway is if there is risk of losing a patent airway. For example, if the throat might swell from injury/trauma or allergic reaction. Another example: To protect heart and brain when the airway might close off completely, such as in severe respiratory distress like a severe asthma attack.
Small non-cartilaginous airways, such as bronchioles, remain patent primarily due to the presence of airway smooth muscle and the elastic recoil of surrounding lung tissue. These structures help maintain airway diameter during breathing, preventing collapse. Additionally, the negative pressure generated during inhalation contributes to keeping these airways open. Surfactant produced by alveolar cells also reduces surface tension, further aiding in airway stability.
The rigid patent airway reinforced with C-rings of hyaline cartilage refers to the structure of the trachea, which maintains its shape and prevents collapse during breathing. The C-shaped cartilage rings provide support while allowing flexibility, enabling the trachea to accommodate movements such as swallowing. This design ensures that the airway remains open for efficient airflow to and from the lungs. The open part of the C rings faces the esophagus, allowing for expansion during swallowing.
1) provides a patent (open) airway. 2) acts as a switching mechanism to route air/food to the proper channels. 3) voice production