What is the main purpose of an airway adjunct?

The main purpose of an airway adjunct is to facilitate and improve airway patency and ventilation. Airway adjuncts, such as oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airways, are specifically designed to maintain an open airway in patients who may be at risk of airway obstruction due to various factors, including decreased consciousness or anatomical variations. By ensuring that the airway remains unobstructed, these devices play a critical role in effective ventilation, which is vital in emergency situations or during anesthesia.

While airway adjuncts may contribute to patient comfort or indirectly influence sedation, the primary function remains focused on preserving airway integrity and optimizing the ability to ventilate the patient effectively. While some airway adjuncts can be utilized in surgical contexts, their principal aim is not to assist in surgical procedures; rather, it is to ensure proper oxygenation and ventilation during patient care.