What Is A Nasopharyngeal Airway Used for?

Nasopharyngeal airways play a critical role in maintaining an open airway, helping patients clear mucus and relieving airway obstructions. Besides, it has a wide range of uses. You've come to the right place if you are a beginner learning related knowledge. Bever Medical will share complete information about nasopharyngeal airways here. 

 

About Nasopharyngeal Airways

A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), commonly called an NPA, is a simple and convenient hollow tube with both ends open. Made from soft, smooth materials like PVC, it is a non-tracheal airway device placed outside the glottis. Its principle is to create a passageway in the nasopharynx, supporting collapsed soft tissues and repositioning the tongue forward. Such design plays a great role in relieving airway obstructions, suctioning mucus, and maintaining airway patency. Compared to oropharyngeal airways, PVC nasopharyngeal airways cause less irritation to the throat, and are an ideal choice for patient comfort and effective airway management. 

Uses of Nasopharyngeal Airways

1. Maintaining Airway Patency

One of the main uses of an NPA is to keep the airway open. When the tongue falls back (tongue obstruction) or soft tissue collapses, an NPA supports the airway, ensuring smooth airflow. This is essential for unconscious or comatose patients, as it prevents airway blockages. 

2. Alternative for Patients Unable to Open Their Mouths

When patients cannot open their mouths due to clenched teeth, facial injuries, or oral trauma, NPAs serve as an ideal alternative. They are especially useful for patients with oral swelling, trauma, or obstructions, effectively preventing breathing difficulties caused by an inability to insert an oral airway. 

3. Emergency and Anesthesia Use

In emergencies, such as during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), NPAs help maintain airway patency and ensure oxygen delivery to the lungs. In anesthesia, they prevent airway obstruction during surgery, ensuring a consistent oxygen supply throughout the procedure.

4. Suctioning and Secretion Clearance

NPAs can guide suction catheters, assisting healthcare professionals in clearing mucus or foreign matter from the nasal and pharyngeal areas. This is crucial for maintaining airway patency, particularly when prompt airway clearance is needed to restore normal breathing. 

5. For Emergency Cases and Special Populations

Tongue obstruction often blocks the airway during seizures. An NPA can effectively maintain airway patency and support breathing. For trauma patients, especially those with head, facial, or neck injuries, NPAs provide a safer option, minimizing excessive airway irritation. 

6. Suitable for Long-Term Use

Generally, NPAs are made of soft medical-grade silicone or PVC, both of which can be left in place for extended periods without causing significant nasal irritation. This makes them particularly beneficial for long-term comatose patients or individuals needing prolonged use due to partial airway obstruction caused by tongue positioning. They are also used for oxygen delivery and suctioning. 

Key Considerations for Use

Proper Sizing

After all, if it is too large or too small can reduce its effectiveness. 

Lubrication

Apply a suitable lubricant before insertion to minimize nasal mucosa damage.

Contraindications

NPAs are not recommended for patients with nasal bleeding, severe nasal injuries, or basal skull fractures, as they may cause further harm. 

Potential Complications and Preventive Measures

1. Nasal Dryness and Minor Bleeding  

Nasal dryness may happen to patients, because the tube needs to continuously support the airway, altering local airflow and leading to reduced moisture in the nasal mucosa. A dry nasal mucosa can weaken its barrier function, increasing the risk of cracks and minor bleeding. Patients are easily prone to nasal bleeding in dry climates or environments with low humidity.   

Besides, the material of the nasopharyngeal airway can irritate the nasal mucosa upon contact. Improper lubrication or using a tube of the wrong size can further dry out or damage the nasal tissue, worsening bleeding symptoms. To minimize these risks, healthcare professionals should handle the tube carefully during insertion, avoid prolonged use, and regularly inspect the nasal cavity for signs of dryness or irritation.

 

2. Upper Respiratory Infections  

Another common complication is an upper respiratory infection. Since NPA are placed in the nasopharyngeal region, they can become a potential breeding ground for bacteria, especially if the device is not kept clean or adequately disinfected. During use, the tube may accumulate secretions and bacteria, which can lead to local infections such as sinusitis or pharyngitis if not cleaned or replaced promptly.  
 

To prevent infections, caregivers should ensure the tube is clean, replace it regularly, and monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, or sore throat. Early recognition and treatment of infections are essential to prevent further complications.

3. Airway Injuries  

Improper use of NPA may cause airway injuries, particularly if the tube is inserted with excessive force or placed incorrectly. This can result in minor trauma to the nasopharynx, nasal cavity, or other airway regions. Injuries are more likely in emergencies or with unconscious patients, as muscle relaxation and soft tissue collapse may increase the risk of friction or abrasion during insertion.   

Symptoms of airway injury include pain, swelling, discomfort, and occasionally difficulty breathing or hoarseness. To avoid these issues, clinicians should select the appropriate NPA size, insert it gently, and ensure the correct insertion depth. Additionally, they should observe patient responses, and adjustments made if discomfort occurs.

4. Misplacement and Tube Obstruction  

It is critical to maintain a clear airway to place NPA correctly. If it is improperly positioned or shifts due to changes in the patient’s posture, it may obstruct the airway and worsen breathing difficulties. Additionally, secretions or mucus may accumulate within the tube during prolonged use, leading to blockages and impairing airflow. 

To prevent misplacement and obstruction, caregivers should regularly check the tube’s position and clear any secretions from the device. Moreover, proper patient positioning can reduce the risk of misplacement during insertion.

Conclusion 

NPA is highly effective in maintaining airway patency and have a wide range of uses. Though certain risks may happen when using a long time or wrong operation, these can be significantly minimized through appropriate equipment selection and proper operation.   

Bever Medical provides customers with high-quality nasopharyngeal airway products, they are made from silicone and PVC materials, ensuring both comfort and safety during use. Whether for short-term use or long-term care, our products aim to meet your needs and help patients maintain clear airways. Contact us now to learn more about airway management solutions.