Guedel Airways Suppliers in Hobart

A Guedel airway is a medical device used to maintain an open airway in unconscious or sedated patients. It is a curved plastic or rubber tube that is inserted into the patient's mouth and extends down the throat to prevent the tongue from obstructing the airway. The Guedel airway is commonly used in emergency situations, such as during anesthesia or resuscitation, to ensure that the patient can breathe properly.

However, Guedel airways typically come in a range of sizes, from 000 (neonatal) to 6 (large adult). The appropriate size is determined by the patient's age and size. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper sizing and use of Guedel airways.

To choose the correct size Guedel airway for a patient, you need to measure the distance from the corner of the mouth to the angle of the jaw or the earlobe to the corner of the mouth. This measurement will give you an estimate of the correct size Guedel airway to use. You can also use the patient's age as a guide, with larger sizes for adults and smaller sizes for children. It is important to choose the correct size to ensure proper airway management and prevent complications.

Guedel airways are typically made from plastic or silicone materials.

Guedel airways can be both reusable and disposable, depending on the manufacturer and the intended use. Some Guedel airways are designed for single-use only and should be disposed of after each use, while others are made from durable materials and can be cleaned and sterilized for multiple uses. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for proper use and disposal of Guedel airways.

Yes, Guedel airways can be sterilized using various methods such as autoclaving, ethylene oxide gas sterilization, and cold sterilization using chemical agents. However, the method of sterilization may depend on the material of the Guedel airway. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for sterilization to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the device.

To insert a Guedel airway, follow these steps:

• Select the appropriate size: Choose a Guedel airway that fits the patient's mouth. The airway should be long enough to reach from the patient's lips to the angle of the jaw.
• Position the patient: Place the patient in a supine position with the head tilted back.
• Open the mouth: Use a tongue depressor or your fingers to open the patient's mouth.
• Insert the airway: Hold the airway with the concave side facing up and insert it into the patient's mouth with the tip pointing towards the roof of the mouth. As you insert the airway, rotate it 180 degrees so that the concave side is facing down.
• Check the position: Ensure that the airway is in the correct position by checking that the flange rests against the patient's lips and the tip is at the angle of the jaw.

Monitor the patient: Observe the patient's breathing and remove the airway if there are any signs of obstruction or discomfort.

The potential risks and complications associated with using a Guedel airway include:

• Airway obstruction: If the airway is not properly positioned, it can cause obstruction and lead to respiratory distress.
• Trauma: The insertion of the airway can cause trauma to the mouth, throat, or airway.
• Aspiration: The airway can cause regurgitation of stomach contents, which can lead to aspiration and subsequent pneumonia.
• Infection: The airway can introduce bacteria into the airway, leading to infection.
• Hypoxia: If the airway is not properly positioned, it can lead to hypoxia, which is a lack of oxygen in the body.
• Damage to teeth: The insertion of the airway can cause damage to teeth or dental work.
• Allergic reactions: Some patients may have an allergic reaction to the material used to make the airway.

It is important to properly assess the patient and use the appropriate size and type of airway to minimize the risks and complications associated with using a Guedel airway.

However, the cost of a Guedel airway in Australia may vary depending on the supplier, brand, and size. It is recommended to check with medical supply stores or online retailers for current pricing information.