Which airway adjunct is sized by measuring from the tip of the nose to the earlobe?

• A. Endotracheal tube
• B. Laryngeal mask
• C. Nasopharyngeal airway
• D. Oropharyngeal airway

Answer: (C)

The measurement from the tip of the nose to the earlobe is used to size a nasopharyngeal airway. This length helps ensure the airway adjunct sits in the nasopharynx behind the soft palate, keeping the airway open without advancing too far into the airway or being too short to bypass the tongue. If it’s too short, the device may not clear the obstruction; if it’s too long, it can irritate nasal tissues or intrude farther than intended.

Other airway adjuncts are sized differently: endotracheal tubes are chosen by internal diameter and depth from teeth to the carina, not nose-to-ear length; laryngeal masks are selected mainly by patient size or weight; and oropharyngeal airways are sized by measuring from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the jaw.