Which structure is most commonly responsible for airway obstruction in an unconscious trauma patient?

• A. Blood
• B. Tongue
• C. Teeth
• D. Vomitus

Answer: (B)

Loss of muscle tone after loss of consciousness allows the tongue to fall back and block the airway, making it the most common source of airway obstruction in an unconscious trauma patient. With protective reflexes absent, the tongue can occlude the oropharynx and prevent airflow, so airway management focuses on moving the tongue forward and opening the passage. Techniques like jaw-thrust or chin-lift target this displacement, and adjuncts such as an oropharyngeal airway help keep the airway open when the patient is unresponsive. Other factors such as blood, vomitus, or loose teeth can contribute to obstruction in trauma, but the tongue is the predominant cause in this scenario.