How Do You Manage A Nasopharyngeal Airway?

Managing a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) is a critical skill for healthcare professionals, it helps patients maintain an open airway. However, if performed incorrectly, it can endanger the patient’s life. As a trusted NPA manufacturer, Bever Medical knows the importance. Therefore, we share a comprehensive guide on how to manage a nasopharyngeal airway today.

What Is a Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA)?  

A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) is used to relieve upper airway obstructions caused by tongue collapse. The traditional NPA resembles a tracheal tube. Its distal end has a short, rounded, beveled edge to reduce throat irritation, while the nasal end features a flange to prevent it from slipping into the nasal cavity.  

The traditional design of the PVC nasopharyngeal airway resembles a tracheal tube. Its distal end features a short, rounded, beveled edge to reduce throat irritation, while the nasal end includes a flange to prevent it from slipping into the nasal cavity. Compared to other devices, such as oropharyngeal airways, the PVC nasopharyngeal airway offers better patient tolerance and helps maintain more stable hemodynamic conditions, making it a reliable choice for airway management.

Choosing the Right Size and Equipment  

The NPA's size is determined by its internal diameter and length, typically measured in millimeters. Choosing the right size is essential to ensure the airway remains open. Only a properly sized NPA can support the posterior pharyngeal wall, relieve obstructions, and maintain an open airway. 

The ideal insertion depth places the distal end within 3 cm of the epiglottis. While diameter is important, studies suggest that length has a greater impact on effectiveness. Therefore, select the size primarily based on the required depth of insertion. 

How to Manage a Nasopharyngeal Airway 

Managing an NPA involves selecting the right size, preparing the airway, and ensuring proper positioning. Below are detailed steps and precautions:  

Steps:

1. Choose the correct size NPA: Measure the distance from the tip of the nose to the earlobe to estimate the appropriate length.  

2. Check the nasal passage: Ensure there are no obstructions, such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum.  

3. Prepare the airway: Spray the nasal mucosa with a vasoconstrictor and local anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine or ephedrine solution). Clean the nostrils and lubricate the NPA’s exterior with paraffin oil or a suitable lubricant.  

4. Insert the NPA: With the curved side facing the hard palate, gently guide the NPA along the nasal floor. Advance it until resistance is felt at the posterior pharyngeal wall.  

5. Adjust as needed: Rotate the NPA 60–90 degrees to align it correctly and guide it into the pharynx. The airway should open, snoring should stop, and breathing should normalize. 

Tips

Slightly tilt the patient’s head back during insertion for easier placement.  

When the NPA reaches the oropharynx, rotate it 180 degrees so the concave side faces downward, positioning the distal end behind the tongue.  

Precautions

Avoid using NPAs on conscious or semi-conscious patients to minimize discomfort or risk of injury.  

Regularly check the NPA’s position, ensure it remains open and clean or replace it as necessary to prevent infections. 

Why Proper NPA Management Is Critical 

Effective management of an NPA is essential, especially in emergencies, due to the following benefits:  

1. Restores airway patency quickly: NPAs can immediately relieve upper airway obstructions, preventing hypoxia.  

2. Simple and versatile: NPAs are easy to use, widely applicable, and ideal for emergency and clinical settings.  

3. Improves survival rates: Proper NPA use provides valuable time to save lives, especially in cases of tongue collapse or laryngeal obstruction. 

Common Challenges and Solutions 

Resistance 

Insertion may encounter resistance due to narrow nasal anatomy or insufficient lubrication.  

Solution: Check for obstructions like polyps or a deviated septum. Apply additional lubricant for smoother insertion.  

Bleeding

The nasal mucosa may become irritated or injured during insertion.  

Solution: Use vasoconstrictors like diluted ephedrine to minimize bleeding risks. Avoid using oversized NPAs or applying excessive force.

Discomfort or Gag Reflex

Patients may experience discomfort or reflexive gagging.  

Solution: Apply a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, to reduce sensitivity and insert the NPA gently to avoid overstimulating the patient. 

Ensuring Patient Safety and Comfort  

To ensure the procedure is safe and comfortable for the patient, follow these best practices:  

Choose the correct size: Measure carefully to select an NPA with the appropriate diameter and length.  

Prepare thoroughly: Clean the nasal passage and use sufficient lubrication and anesthetics.  

Handle gently: Avoid excessive force to reduce the risk of nasal mucosa injury.  

Monitor closely: Regularly check the patient’s reaction and adjust the NPA if necessary.

Conclusion

Choosing the right NPA and mastering its use is crucial for effective airway management. Bever Medical is dedicated to providing high-quality NPAs made from medical-grade materials. Our NPAs are scientifically designed to be flexible, durable, and safe, reducing operational risks and enhancing patient comfort.  

Whether for emergency care or routine clinical use, Bever Medical NPAs are the reliable choice. Explore our catalog today and get top-tier airway management solutions!