Which factor contributes to airway obstruction risk in infants because it is proportionally larger?

• A. The epiglottis is smaller
• B. The airway is longer
• C. The larynx is higher in the neck
• D. The tongue is proportionally larger in infants

Answer: (D)

Infants have a tongue that is proportionally larger than in adults relative to the size of their oral cavity. That means the tongue can more easily fill and narrow the space behind the tongue and airway, so when muscle tone drops or the infant is positioned on their back, the tongue can fall back and obstruct breathing. Keeping the airway open often requires positioning to prevent the tongue from occluding the airway and, if needed, airway adjuncts. The other options don’t explain obstruction specifically due to size: the epiglottis being smaller, the airway being longer, or the larynx being higher don’t account for a structure that is disproportionately large causing blockage.