Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

If a multilumen airway device is inserted into the trachea, how does it function?

1. It provides suction only

2. It functions like a nasal cannula

3. It functions the same as an endotracheal tube

4. It cannot provide ventilation

The correct answer is: It functions the same as an endotracheal tube

A multilumen airway device is designed to provide a clear airway for patients who may not be able to ventilate adequately on their own. When inserted into the trachea, it functions similarly to an endotracheal tube. Both devices create a direct path for oxygen to flow into the lungs and for carbon dioxide to be expelled, effectively facilitating mechanical ventilation if needed. The multilumen airway offers additional features like multiple channels for air passage and may provide options for suctioning while in place, which can be beneficial in certain emergency situations. However, its primary role when properly positioned is to allow for the delivery of breaths, much like an endotracheal tube would. This capability is essential to managing patients in respiratory distress or failure who require advanced airway management.