Vomiting Airway Management — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Turn laterally, clear the mouth with suction, and assess the airway
**A is correct.** Stop treatment immediately and turn the patient onto their side, using suction to clear vomitus from the mouth and oropharynx while assessing and maintaining the airway. Lateral positioning promotes drainage and reduces the risk of vomit entering the airway. NHS first-aid guidance states that the recovery position keeps the airway open and helps prevent choking on vomit or fluid. SDCEP expects dental teams to be competent in recovery-position and airway management. **B** may be appropriate for an alert patient once the episode is controlled, but is not the best immediate position for active vomiting. **C** increases aspiration risk. **D** delays essential airway measures, and **E** is unsafe because treatment must stop during the emergency.
Reference: NHS, *First aid: Recovery position*, reviewed 2024. https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/first-aid/recovery-position/