What results in partial or total obstruction of the airway in an unconscious patient?
a. Closed mouth coexistent with nasal con-gestion.
b. Epiglottis relaxes and occludes the laryn-geal opening.
c. Relaxation of tongue and hypopharyngeal muscles.
d. The uvula occluding the airway.
ANS: C
During unconsciousness, the muscles of the tongue and hypopharynx can relax and allow the tongue and other soft tissues to collapse and occlude the opening of the hypopharynx. This con-dition can result in partial to complete blockage of the upper airway and limit air movement to and from the respiratory tract. This is a primary cause of obstructive sleep apnea.
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