Home / Knowledge & Education / Airway Management
  • 01 Dec 2025

    A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), often called a "nasal trumpet," might look simple, but it plays a vital role in ensuring safe and effective breathing. This soft, hollow tube is inserted gently through the nostril into the upper throat, creating a direct passage for air when a patient's natural airway is at risk. Unlike oral airways, NPAs are well-tolerated by patients who are semi-conscious or have an intact gag reflex, making them invaluable in emergency and clinical care.   How an NPA Works Think of the NPA as a tiny, invisible highway for air. When a patient's tongue or soft tissues collapse backward, airflow can be blocked. By holding these tissues aside, the NPA ensures oxygen reaches the lungs effortlessly. Key Functions of an NPA Facilitate oxygen delivery and ventilation Allow gentle suctioning of mucus and secretions Serve as temporary support when oral access is limited, such as after facial trauma or during swelling In practice, this simple device can make a significant difference, bridging the gap between basic airway management and more advanced interventions (Starship Hospital Guidelines, StatPearls).  A Quick Look at Its Evolution Introduced in the late 1950s, the NPA has evolved from a simple rubber tube to a flexible, anatomically designed PVC device. Modern designs include soft material, flared ends to prevent over-insertion, and sizes suitable for both children and adults. These improvements enhance patient comfort while reducing complications, making NPAs a standard in emergency medicine, anesthesia, and intensive care. When to Use an NPA NPAs are especially useful in situations where airway compromise is likely, and oral devices are unsuitable:   Typical Scenarios Semi-conscious or drowsy patients Those who cannot tolerate oral airways Patients with limited mouth opening due to swelling, trauma, or dental procedures During oxygen therapy or bag-valve-mask ventilation For clearing secretions in the nasopharyngeal region By providing a safe, minimally invasive pathway for airflow, NPAs help ensure patients can breathe comfortably and reliably. Potential Risks and How to Avoid Them While NPAs are generally safe, they must be used properly. Common Risks Nasal bleeding or mucosal injury Improper placement causing obstruction Rare but serious complications, such as intracranial insertion in skull base fractures These risks can be minimized by selecting the correct size, using soft PVC material, lubricating the tube, inserting gently along the nasal floor, and monitoring the patient continuously.  Choosing the Right NPA The ideal NPA balances safety, comfort, and effectiveness. Selection Guidelines Proper length: reaches from nostril to roughly the earlobe Soft, flexible PVC with a beveled tip Flanged ends to prevent over-insertion Regular monitoring for displacement or irritation Following these simple rules ensures the device works as intended while keeping the patient comfortable. Why BEVER Medical PVC NPA Stands Out BEVER Medical offers high-quality PVC NPAs designed with both patient comfort and clinical practicality in mind. Their tubes are soft and flexible, with safety flanges and multiple sizes for all ages. Whether used for emergency airway management, oxygen delivery, or temporary support, BEVER NPAs make clinical procedures smoother and safer, reflecting years of experience in medical device design. Conclusion The nasopharyngeal airway may be a small device, but its impact is enormous. By providing a safe passage for airflow, it protects patients when their natural airway is compromised. With careful selection, proper insertion, and reliable monitoring, NPAs are a trusted tool in hospitals, clinics, and emergency care settings. BEVER Medical's PVC NPAs bring comfort, safety, and efficiency together, ensuring every breath counts.

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  • 19 Nov 2025

    The Amy Nasopharyngeal Airway—also known as the Amy Nasopharyngeal Airway Tube—is widely used in emergency and tactical environments. It is standard equipment in military field medical kits, tactical emergency care training, and wilderness rescue teams. Its ease of insertion and dependable design make it ideal for maintaining airway patency when oral access is limited.   Material Types of Amy Nasopharyngeal Airways   PVC Nasopharyngeal Airway Medical-grade PVC offers a practical combination of flexibility and strength. It is commonly used in large-volume procurement programs, EMS kits, and military distribution systems.   Silicone Nasopharyngeal Airway Silicone NPAs provide maximum softness and biocompatibility. They minimize irritation and are frequently selected by hospitals, anesthesia departments, and advanced rescue units.   Functional Design Variations   Fixed-Flange Nasopharyngeal Airway (Classic Amy Design) The traditional Amy-style NPA includes a fixed flange that prevents over-insertion. It is valued for its simplicity, reliability, and consistent performance in field conditions.   Silicone Adjustable Nasopharyngeal Airway The PVC Adjustable Nasopharyngeal Airway includes a movable flange that allows depth adjustment. This design increases adaptability when treating different patient profiles and reduces the number of fixed sizes needed in compact kits.   Professional Sizing Guide for Nasopharyngeal Airway Tubes Common Sizing Recommendations Patient Type Size Range (Fr) Small adults / older adolescents 20–24 Fr Average adults  26–30 Fr Larger adults 32–36 Fr   Length Estimation Method A useful field technique is measuring from the nostril to the earlobe or the angle of the mandible to approximate ideal NPA length. Key Considerations During Sizing Select a size that ensures comfort and airflow. Use sufficient lubrication. If resistance occurs, switch nostrils rather than forcing placement. Position the bevel toward the nasal septum.   Application Scenarios and Precautions  Typical Application Scenarios Tactical emergency training Remote or wilderness rescue Prehospital airway support Situations where oral airway access is limited   Precautions and Suitable Use Avoid use in the presence of significant nasal trauma. Evaluate carefully in suspected mid-face injuries. Monitor for discomfort or bleeding during insertion. Use only by personnel with appropriate training. Amy Nasopharyngeal Airway Solutions from BEVER Medical  Silicone Adjustable Nasopharyngeal Airway Medical-grade silicone construction Soft and flexible for improved tolerance Adjustable flange for depth control Smooth beveled tip for easy insertion Available in a full range of French sizes  Silicone Nasopharyngeal Airway Ultra-soft, medical-grade silicone Enhanced patient comfort EO-sterilized Optional pre-lubricated version   Pre-Lubricated Nasal Airway (PVC or Silicone) Ready-to-use format Efficient for EMS, military, and rescue kits Multiple sizes for various patient needs  BEVER Medical supports distributors, military procurement teams, emergency-response suppliers, and global medical device brands with consistent manufacturing quality and reliable product availability.

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  • 24 Oct 2025

    In clinical anesthesia and emergency care, maintaining a patent airway is one of the most fundamental and lifesaving tasks. When oral access is limited, intubation is difficult, or the patient presents with trismus (jaw clenching), the nasopharyngeal airway (Nasal Trumpet ) can serve as an effective temporary measure. Simple in appearance yet powerful in function, it helps maintain airflow and prevents airway obstruction in patients who are semi-conscious but retain protective reflexes.    1. What Is a Nasopharyngeal Airway? A nasopharyngeal airway is a soft, flexible tube inserted through the nostril into the nasopharynx, creating a passage for air to reach the lower airway. Its main function is to prevent obstruction caused by the tongue or soft tissue collapse, which can occur in patients with reduced consciousness. NPAs are appropriate for patients who require airway support but cannot tolerate an oropharyngeal airway, such as those with partial consciousness or limited mouth opening.  2. Materials and Design Modern NPAs are typically made from medical-grade PVC or TPE, providing a balance of flexibility and firmness suitable for safe insertion. Many feature rounded, atraumatic tips and smooth internal walls to reduce friction and mucosal trauma. Some designs come pre-lubricated with water-soluble gel, simplifying insertion in emergency situations. Size selection is crucial: the correct length is generally measured from the tip of the nose to the earlobe or angle of the jaw, and the diameter should allow comfortable placement without causing nasal trauma.   3. Clinical Applications Nasopharyngeal airways are widely used in various settings: Emergency medicine and prehospital care: to maintain airway patency when intubation is delayed or difficult. Anesthesia and surgery: to prevent airway obstruction during sedation or minor procedures. Critical care transport: providing a temporary airway during movement. Patients with trismus or oral injuries: when oral airway devices cannot be safely inserted. Insertion should follow the nasal floor parallel to the palate, with adequate lubrication, and care should be taken in patients with suspected basal skull fractures or severe facial trauma.  4. Advantages NPAs offer several practical benefits in clinical care: Maintains spontaneous breathing and airway patency. Reduces risk of airway obstruction from tongue or soft tissue collapse. Compatible with oxygen delivery and suctioning in emergency settings. Relatively easy and rapid to use, even outside the hospital. Minimal trauma when properly inserted, making them suitable for repeated or short-term use. 5. Safety Considerations While generally safe, NPAs must be used with caution in: Patients with suspected basal skull fractures or severe nasal/facial trauma. Cases where improper sizing could cause gagging, laryngospasm, or inadequate airway support. Situations requiring strict infection control — single-use or sterilized devices are recommended. Proper monitoring during use is essential to detect any complications such as nasal bleeding, displacement, or obstruction. 6. Conclusion The nasopharyngeal airway remains a simple yet indispensable tool for maintaining a patent airway in semi-conscious or difficult-to-manage patients. Its design and ease of use make it a cornerstone of emergency airway management, prehospital care, and procedural sedation. Modern products combine ergonomic design, soft atraumatic tips, color-coded sizing, and pre-lubrication options to improve both patient safety and procedural efficiency.

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  • 08 Oct 2025

    A nasopharyngeal airway is also known as a nasal trumpet or nasopharyngeal trumpet. This tool is powerful in emergency medicine, though it looks small and soft. NPAs play a great role in helping patients breathe smoothly and maintain normal tidal volume, even in challenging situations. In this article, we'll discuss how the nasal airway helps maintain healthy breathing patterns.    What Is a Nasal Trumpet? In medical terms, we call it a nasopharyngeal airway. The flared end looks like a tiny trumpet,  where it gets its nickname. A nasal trumpet is basically a soft, flexible tube—usually made of rubber or silicone, which you can find these devices made of materials you mentioned at Bever Medical. Usage of them is gently sliding through the nose down to the back of the throat.  Before using, ensure your patients can open their mouths. Besides, you should get to know the following suitable usage situations:  Is semi-conscious or unconscious Can't open their mouth because of trauma Has dental work or injuries that make oral devices tricky In short, it's a simple tool that keeps the airway open and makes sure air can flow freely into the lungs.  What Is Tidal Volume? Before we go further, it's important to know the definition of tidal volume. Tidal volume (TV) refers to the amount of air inhaled or exhaled in a single breath during normal, relaxed breathing. In healthy adults, normal tidal volume is typically about 400–600 mL per breath, or roughly 7 mL per kilogram of body weight. It's crucial to keep proper tidal volume because it ensures enough oxygen reaches the lungs and, consequently, the bloodstream. When tidal volume drops, oxygen delivery to vital organs can be compromised, which is dangerous in any emergency situation.  How Nasopharyngeal Airways Help Maintain Normal Tidal Volume Sometimes, the body's natural airway can become partially blocked. This is especially common when someone is unconscious, and the tongue falls back toward the throat. Even if the chest and diaphragm are working normally, airflow can be restricted, which reduces tidal volume. This is where a nasopharyngeal airway or nasal trumpet becomes essential. By gently bypassing the tongue and soft tissues, the device allows air to flow freely to the lungs. With an open airway, the patient can breathe with normal tidal volume, ensuring adequate oxygenation. In other words: A nasal trumpet does not “push” more air into the lungs—it simply clears the path, allowing the patient's natural breathing to achieve a normal tidal volume.    Why the Army Relies on NPAs Military medics are trained to deal with emergencies where airway obstruction is common. In battlefield conditions, soldiers may be: Unconscious Suffering facial trauma Wearing helmets or gear that complicates oral airway insertion In such cases, a nasopharyngeal airway army version is included in first-aid kits because it: Can be inserted quickly Works even when the mouth is inaccessible Minimizes gag reflex Helps maintain normal tidal volume immediately Consider a scenario: a soldier is knocked unconscious during training, and his tongue partially blocks his airway. Without intervention, his tidal volume drops, oxygenation decreases, and he risks severe complications. In seconds, a medic inserts a nasal trumpet, restoring airflow and normal tidal volume, stabilizing him until further care arrives.  Everyday and Clinical Uses While nasal trumpets are well-known in military settings, they are also widely used in civilian medical practice: Emergency rooms: For unconscious patients who are breathing but at risk of airway obstruction Ambulances: To ensure safe transport of trauma patients Sleep medicine: Sometimes used to relieve mild airway obstruction in patients with sleep apnea Dental procedures: When sedation is involved and mouth opening is limited In each of these situations, the key benefit remains: keeping the airway open and ensuring adequate tidal volume.  Safe Use Guidelines To use a nasal trumpet safely: Choose the correct size: Too small may be ineffective; too large can cause trauma. Lubricate well: Prevents nasal tissue damage and eases insertion. Insert gently: Always follow the curve of the nasal passage. Avoid contraindicated cases: Do not use if there's a suspected basal skull fracture. Monitor breathing: Check that tidal volume and oxygen saturation remain adequate. Remember, improper insertion can cause nasal bleeding or, in rare cases, worsen airway obstruction. Training and practice are essential.  Signs a Nasal Trumpet Is Working Once inserted correctly, you should observe: Smooth, unobstructed breathing Normal rise and fall of the chest Adequate tidal volume, meaning the person takes full breaths without visible struggle Reduced snoring or gurgling sounds caused by airway obstruction These signs indicate that the device is helping maintain normal tidal volume effectively.  Conclusion From battlefield medics to emergency rooms,  nasopharyngeal airways ensure patients to breathe effectively, keeping their tidal volume stays within the normal range. After knowing how these devices work, both medical professionals and curious patients can appreciate the importance of airway management, even in the smallest forms. If you're looking for high-quality nasal trumpets for professional or emergency use, welcome to explore our full range of airway products, medical-gradd material guarantee, reliability, and ease of use. Equip your medical kit today and be prepared for any situation.

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  • 07 Oct 2025

    Introduction Effective airway management is essential in emergency, anesthesia, and critical care. A Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) is a soft, flexible tube inserted through the nose to maintain a patent airway. Unlike oropharyngeal airways, NPAs are better tolerated by conscious or semi-conscious patients, making them ideal in pre-hospital and hospital settings.  Indications and Contraindications Indications NPA is indicated when: Upper airway obstruction occurs due to tongue or soft palate collapse OPA is not tolerated due to gag reflex Mouth opening is limited (trauma, trismus, fixation) Temporary airway maintenance is needed before intubation Continuous suctioning or oxygen delivery via nasal passage is required  Contraindications Avoid NPA in: Suspected basilar skull fracture or CSF leak Severe facial or nasal trauma Coagulopathy or bleeding disorders Nasal obstruction, polyps, or infection Inserting an NPA in patients with skull fractures can risk intracranial placement.   Preparation and Equipment Essential Equipment Sterile NPAs (various sizes) Water-based lubricant or lidocaine gel Suction apparatus and catheters PPE (gloves, mask, goggles) Monitoring equipment (pulse oximeter, ECG, capnography) Tape or fixation device  Choosing the Correct Size Length: Nostril to earlobe or jaw angle Diameter: Slightly smaller than nostril opening If uncertain, start with a smaller size to avoid trauma  Step-by-Step Insertion Technique Hand hygiene and protective gear Inspect nostrils, select the more patent side Lubricate the NPA generously Position patient (neutral or sniffing, avoid neck extension if spinal injury suspected) Insert gently along the nasal floor, bevel facing septum If resistance occurs, withdraw and try the opposite nostril Confirm placement: airflow, chest rise, breath sounds, oxygen saturation Secure with tape or fixation strap Document size, side, time, and patient tolerance  Monitoring and Ongoing Care Assess airway patency, breathing pattern, and oxygenation Check for bleeding, blockage, or displacement Suction secretions as needed Maintain hygiene and replace NPAs if prolonged use Potential Complications Epistaxis: prevent with lubrication and gentle insertion Nasal tissue injury: avoid force, alternate nostrils Tube blockage: regular suctioning Dislodgement: secure properly Sinus infection: replace periodically Vagal stimulation: monitor depth, adjust as needed Intracranial insertion: avoid in skull fracture patients Most complications are minor and preventable with proper technique and monitoring.  Removal and Follow-Up Remove when: Patient regains airway reflexes Active bleeding, discomfort, or infection occurs NPA is damaged or no longer needed Removal steps: Explain to patient if conscious Gently withdraw while supporting nostril Observe for bleeding or respiratory distress Document removal and patient status BEVER Medical Nasopharyngeal Airways BEVER Medical NPAs are designed for safe, gentle, and reliable airway management. Made from medical-grade PVC or silicone Multiple sizes for adult, pediatric, and elderly patients ISO 13485, CE, FDA-certified OEM customization available BEVER Medical NPAs support healthcare professionals in maintaining safe, effective airway access, ensuring every breath counts.  Conclusion The Nasopharyngeal Airway is a simple yet essential tool for maintaining airway patency in semi-conscious or compromised patients. Proper size selection, gentle insertion, and ongoing monitoring are key to safe and effective use.

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  • 23 Sep 2025

    It's a challenge to care for children when they need a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) insertion. Kids always resist anything that looks scary, and a small tube going into their nose can easily turn into tears and panic. However, with the right approach, you can turn this procedure from a “forced operation” into a smooth, cooperative process. In this blog, we'll walk you through a 5-step method that blends communication and technique to make NPA insertion less stressful for everyone.    Why Children Resist Nasopharyngeal Airway Insertion Before diving into the steps, let's talk about why kids often push back: Nasal discomfort: The nose is sensitive, and even a gentle touch can feel painful. Fear of strange tools: A clear plastic tube looks like a “scary medical gadget” to a child. No clear purpose: Kids don't understand why you're doing it, which makes them nervous. Knowing these triggers helps you prepare the right responses. Instead of battling against resistance, you can guide the child toward cooperation.   Step 1: Pre-Procedure Talk with Child-Friendly Language The first step is simple—explain before you act. Children feel calmer when they know what's coming. Here are some tricks that work: Use a “toy tube” demo: Show the nasopharyngeal airway on a doll or even let the child hold it. Say, “See? This little straw helps your nose breathe better.” Simple words, no jargon: Instead of “nasopharyngeal airway insertion,” you could say, “We're giving your nose a small tunnel so you can breathe easier.” Positive tone: Present the tube as a helper, not a punishment. When children see the device as a “breathing helper,” they're more likely to accept it calmly. Step 2: Use Safe Pain Relief Options Even with good communication, nasal discomfort is real. For children under 3 years old, applying 2% lidocaine gel on the nasal mucosa can help reduce pain during insertion. It's quick, safe, and avoids the shock of pushing in a dry tube. This step prevents the procedure from feeling like a “hard push.” Instead, it becomes a smoother, almost painless process. Pro Tip: BEVER Medical offers NPAs with a rounded, beveled tip and smooth edges, which already reduce irritation. You can explore our full airway management products for safe and child-friendly options. Step 3: Positioning Matters Traditionally, children are laid down flat during NPA insertion. But this often makes them feel trapped. A better option is to let the parent hold the child in a side-lying sitting position. Why it works: Less pressure on the child's body. More comfort because they feel secure in the parents'arms. Easier for you to reach the nasal passage without struggling. This small adjustment creates a huge difference in how cooperative the child will be. Step 4: Quick and Gentle Insertion Technique Speed and accuracy are everything here. The actual insertion should take no more than 3 seconds. The method is: Two-person teamwork: One person gently supports and stabilizes the child's head, while the other inserts the tube. Quick, precise, gentle: Insert in one smooth motion—no hesitation. Size check first: Always use the NPA size that matches the child's anatomy (look for ID marks on the flange). Bever Medical's disposable NPAs come in a variety of sizes, all clearly marked, making it easier to pick the right one. The round flange ensures it stays in place once inserted. Step 5: Comfort and Reward After the Procedure Children remember feelings. If the procedure ends with stress, they'll resist future care even more. But if you turn it into a positive memory, they'll relax next time. Here are ways to make it better: Give a toy, sticker, or small snack immediately afterward. Offer praise like, “You did amazing! You're so strong.” Reassure them that the tube is helping them breathe, not hurting them. These simple gestures lower anxiety and build trust for future medical care. Choosing the Right Nasopharyngeal Airway for Children Not all NPAs are the same. At Bever Medical, we ensure these devices with safe and comfortable first: Product Type Key Features Child-Friendly Benefit NPA without Lubricant Rounded beveled tip, round flange, sterile, latex-free Smooth, safe insertion, secure placement NPA with Lubricant Comes with an attached surgical jelly pack Easier insertion, less nasal irritation Adjustable NPA Silicone material, movable disc, ergonomic Soft, biocompatible, reduces trauma, adjustable fit When you're working with children, choosing an airway that minimizes discomfort is just as important as the technique itself. FAQs on Children's Nasopharyngeal Airway Insertion Q1: Is a nasopharyngeal airway safe for children?Yes. When used correctly, NPAs are safe and effective for children who need airway support. Choosing the right size and inserting gently are key. Q2: How do I choose the right NPA size for my child patient?Look for the ID markings on the flange. The correct size usually matches the distance from the nose to the earlobe. Bever Medical NPA comes in multiple sizes for precise fitting. Q3: Does NPA insertion hurt children?It may feel uncomfortable, but using lidocaine gel, smooth-tipped NPAs, and quick insertion techniques greatly reduces pain. Q4: Can NPA be reused for children?No. Disposable NPAs should only be used once to avoid contamination and infection risk. Bever Medical NPAs are sterile and individually packaged. Q5: How can I calm a child before NPA insertion?Show them the device like a toy, use simple language, let them stay in a parent's arms, and reward them after the procedure. Final Thoughts Through the 5-step method mentioned above—talk, pain relief, positioning, quick insertion, and reward—you can turn a stressful procedure into a calm, cooperative moment. BEVER Medical is here to support you with safe, well-designed nasopharyngeal airway devices that put both safety and comfort first. Any interests, welcome to check out our full range of airway management products to find the right fit for your patients.

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