When intubating a patient, you note a leaf-shaped structure that covers the opening of the larynx. You recognize that it is which one of the following structures?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The leaf-shaped structure that covers the opening of the larynx during intubation is the epiglottis, which prevents food or liquid from entering the trachea during swallowing. The esophagus is a tubular structure that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, and is located posterior to the trachea. The vallecula is a depression between the base of the tongue and the epiglottis, and is an important landmark for intubation. The cricoid cartilage is a ring-shaped structure located inferior to the thyroid cartilage, and is used for securing the airway in emergency situations.

When Intubating a Patient, You Note a Leaf-Shaped Structure That