critical care medicine
How To Insert a Nasopharyngeal Airway
Step by Step Description of Nasopharyngeal Airway Procedure
As necessary, clear the oropharynx of obstructing secretions, vomitus, or foreign material. Determine the appropriate size of the airway. When held against the side of the face, a correctly sized airway will extend from the tip of the nose to the tragus of the ear. Measure the length of the airway to ensure it does not cause obstruction. Open the nares to reveal the nasal passage. Inspect both nares to determine which side is wider. Lubricate the nasopharyngeal airway with water-soluble lubricant or anesthetic jelly such aslidocainegel. Insert the airway posteriorly (not cephalad) parallel to the floor of the nasal cavity, with the bevel of the tip facing toward the nasal septum (ie, with the pointed end lateral and the open end of the airway facing the septum). Use gentle yet firm pressure to pass the airway through the nasal cavity under the inferior turbinate. If you encounter resistance, try rotating the airway slightly and re-advance. If the tube still will not pass, try inserting it into the other nostril. Advance the airway straight back until the flange is resting at the nostril opening. 