Which airway device is inserted through the nostril and is often used in patients who may not be able to protect their airway?

• A. Nasopharyngeal airway
• B. Oropharyngeal airway
• C. Endotracheal tube
• D. Laryngeal mask airway

Answer: (A)

In airway management, keeping the airway open when a patient can’t protect it is essential. A nasopharyngeal airway is designed to be inserted through a nostril and into the nasopharynx to hold the airway open. By sitting above the tongue and behind the nasal passages, it prevents the tongue from falling back and partially occluding the airway, making ventilation easier and allowing suctioning if needed.

This device is often chosen for patients who are at risk of airway compromise but who may not tolerate or gag on an oral device. It’s generally more comfortable for semi-conscious or awake patients compared with an oropharyngeal airway and can be used when there’s concern about protecting the airway, though it does not provide a definitive airway like a tube or a supraglottic device.

Be aware of contraindications: if there’s a suspected basal skull fracture, nasal obstruction or significant facial trauma, or active nasal bleeding, a nasopharyngeal airway should be avoided. In those cases, alternative airway management methods are considered.