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Gag afferent — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyAnatomyGag afferentFRCA Primary

Touching the posterior pharyngeal wall produces gagging during airway topicalisation. Which anatomical structure is described?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Glossopharyngeal nerve

The glossopharyngeal nerve carries the afferent limb of the gag reflex. Median nerve is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Internal jugular vein anterolateral to carotid artery is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Intercostobrachial nerve is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Femoral and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. In Primary FRCA anatomy, the tested structure should explain the block, airway sign or regional complication in the stem.

Reference: Ellis, Feldman & Harrop Anatomy for Anaesthetists; Primary FRCA textbooks