forceps with a pair of scissor - like arms that are pivotally connected to each other and that continue past the pivot to form a catheter guide . at least two and preferably three bends are disposed in the arms immediately before the pivot , which allow the medical professional to place the guiding end of the forceps in the correct place while maintaining good visual contact with the patient &# 39 ; s vocal cords . an alternative embodiment provides a fourth bend near the guiding end of the forceps that allows for easier insertion of a catheter in some patients , such as children .