Which intervention should be avoided in a patient with an intact gag reflex?

Inserting an oropharyngeal airway is the correct intervention to avoid in a patient with an intact gag reflex because this type of airway can stimulate the gag reflex. The oropharyngeal airway is designed to keep the airway open by preventing the tongue from occluding it, but if the patient has an intact gag reflex, inserting this device can trigger coughing or gagging, potentially leading to airway compromise or aspiration.

In contrast, interventions like inserting a nasopharyngeal airway or performing suctioning can be appropriate even in patients with an intact gag reflex, as they do not typically stimulate the gag reflex. Additionally, a head tilt-chin lift is a maneuver used to maintain airway patency that does not involve inserting an airway device and is safe for patients regardless of their gag reflex status. Therefore, avoiding the oropharyngeal airway in such cases is critical to ensure patient safety and maintain a clear airway.