how to measure a nasopharyngeal airway, correct size nasopharyngeal airway

The nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) can help prevent airway obstruction in unconscious patients by preventing the tongue from falling back. And the NPA inner length can affect airway patency, if healthcare professionals do not use the correct size NPA, it may affect the patient's breathing. Therefore, it is important to use the correct size nasopharyngeal airway. This article is a guide on how to measure the right size NPA, without further ado, let's deeply dive into it.

 PVC Nasopharyngeal Airway

Nasopharyngeal Airway

The nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), is a thin, transparent, flexible tube inserted into a patient's nostril, commonly used in emergency care, anesthesia, and intensive care settings. It can be used for patients of all ages, from newborns to old, to help maintain a clear airway in conscious or semi-conscious individuals. In short, NPA can clear blockages in the upper airway at the nose, nasopharynx, or base of the tongue to stop the tongue from sliding back against the throat, which helps reduce the risk of airway obstruction.

Guide to Measure and Inset a Nasopharyngeal Airway

Tool preparation

• Nasopharyngeal airways (NPA) in various sizes
• Gloves for hygiene and safety
• Water-soluble lubricant to facilitate insertion

Steps

Confirming Patient Age

There are significant differences in nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) sizes between children and adults, it's essential to confirm the patient's age before measurement and prepare the appropriate NPA size.

Choosing the Right NPA Size

The diameter of the NPA is typically proportional to its length; larger NPAs are generally longer as well. An appropriate size not only maintains airway patency but also ensures correct placement in the nasopharynx.  

• Measuring Tips: Place the NPA from the patient's nose tip to the earlobe; the correct length will be the point where it fits snugly.  
• Average Size for Females: 6-7 mm diameter  
• Average Size for Males: 7-8 mm diameter  
• Size for Children: Diameter typically ranges from 4-7 mm  

Lubricating the NPA

After the size is determined, remember to use a water-soluble lubricant to adequately coat the NPA. This helps ensure smooth insertion, reduces patient discomfort, and minimizes damage to the nasal mucosa.

Insertion Correctly

Keep the patient head tilt and elevate the chin, or use the chin lift technique to open the airway. This position facilitates a smoother insertion of the NPA and reduces resistance.

Insertion Tips

When inserting the nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), angle the NPA's bevel toward the nasal septum and gently advance it along the floor of the nasal cavity, avoiding any upward force. The entire insertion process should be smooth and steady until the NPA reaches the oropharynx. 

After insertion, closely monitor the patient’s breathing to ensure the airway is patent. You can assess this by observing, listening, and feeling for normal breath sounds and airflow.

Note: The personnel inserting and handling the NPA must have the appropriate professional training to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.

Contraindications for NPA Use

Active Nasal Bleeding: Do not insert an NPA in patients with nasal bleeding to prevent the worsening of the condition.

Facial Trauma: The use of NPA is prohibited, especially in cases of basal skull fractures, as it may inadvertently enter the cranial cavity.

Severe Respiratory Infections: Infections can cause damage to the nasal cavity and oropharynx, worsening the patient’s condition.

Coagulopathy or Anticoagulant Use: These conditions may increase the risk of bleeding, so NPA use should be avoided in such patients.

Potential Complications

1. Nasal Bleeding (Epistaxis)
2. Nasal or Septal Injury
3. Sinus Infection
4. Misplacement into the Trachea or Esophagus
5. Intracranial Insertion 
6. Discomfort or Pain 

Practical Tips to Avoid Complications

Ensure the patient has no contraindications, especially regarding basal skull fractures or nasal bleeding.

Use a water-soluble lubricant to adequately lubricate the NPA, minimizing friction during insertion.

Maintain the correct insertion angle and perform the procedure gently, advancing along the floor of the nasal cavity while avoiding direct upward pressure, thus reducing stress on the nasal septum.

By employing correct techniques and careful handling, complications can be effectively minimized, ensuring that the patient’s airway remains open and respiratory function is preserved.

Conclusion

Learning to master the correct size nasopharyngeal airway can help a lot and save time. And following the above tips you can measure and insert the nasopharyngeal airway,  to know the, can ensure the patient is safe. Additionally, you need to pay attention to the patient's situation and whether can use NPA. For healthcare professionals seeking the best in patient care, consider partnering with a manufacturer of OEM nasopharyngeal airways. Bever can ensure your patients with reliable, effective airway management solutions, check these OEM products now.