Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA)

Question 1

Indications for a NPA?

Answer 1

1. Potential or actual airway obstruction

Question 2

Contraindications for a NPA?

Answer 2

Nil in this setting

Question 3

Complications of a NPA?

Answer 3

1. Airway trauma, particularly epistaxis
2. Incorrect size/placement will compromise effectiveness
3. Exacerbate injury in base of skull fracture, with NPA potentially displacing into the cranial vault
4. Can stimulate a gag reflex in sensitive patients, precipitating vomiting or aspiration

Question 4

How is a NPA measured?

Answer 4

A NPA is measured from the tip of the patient’s nose to the earlobe

Question 5

How is a NPA inserted?

Answer 5

Insert the lubricated NPA with the bevel facing the nasal septum (the right nostril is typically larger and thus preferred)