Which airway management technique is suitable for a conscious patient?

Bag-valve-mask ventilation is the suitable airway management technique for a conscious patient because it allows for the delivery of positive pressure ventilation while maintaining the patient's airway with minimal discomfort. This technique involves using a bag, a unidirectional valve, and a mask that fits over the patient's nose and mouth to assist in breathing, making it non-invasive and safe for patients who retain their consciousness and protective airway reflexes.

In contrast, nasal intubation is typically reserved for patients who require airway control but may not be appropriate for conscious individuals, as it may cause discomfort and distress. Endotracheal intubation, while effective for securing the airway, generally involves sedation or paralysis and is not suitable for a conscious patient, as it is invasive and can provoke a gag reflex. Tracheostomy is also an invasive procedure typically reserved for patients who require prolonged airway management and is not indicated for conscious patients, making it unsuitable for emergency situations where the patient is alert and able to breathe independently.