Airway management is a cornerstone of emergency medicine, anesthesia, and critical care. Nasopharyngeal airways (NPA) and oropharyngeal airways (OPA) are two common tools used to secure the airway, ensuring adequate ventilation and oxygenation. While both devices serve the primary purpose of maintaining a patent airway, they differ significantly in design, use cases, and clinical application. This document explores these differences in detail to help clinicians choose the most appropriate tool for a given situation. 1. What is an NPA? An NPA, or Nasopharyngeal Airway, is a flexible, tubular device inserted through the nostril into the nasopharynx to maintain airway patency. It is designed to bypass obstructions in the oropharynx and create a channel for airflow. Key Features of NPA: Material: Usually made of soft, pliable rubber or silicone to reduce trauma during insertion. Shape and Design: Cylindrical with a flared end to prevent complete insertion and a beveled tip for easier navigation through the nasal passages. Sizes: Available in various lengths and diameters to suit different patient anatomies, from pediatric to adult. Applications: Suitable for patients with an intact gag reflex or those who are semi-conscious. Commonly used in prehospital care, anesthesia, and intensive care units. Indicated for situations where oral airway insertion is contraindicated, such as facial trauma, clenched jaw, or limited mouth opening. BEVER Medical Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) is a high-quality, medical-grade device designed to provide secure and comfortable airway management. Crafted from medical-grade PVC material, this NPA is specifically engineered to meet the needs of emergency medical professionals, paramedics, and healthcare providers. Its thoughtful design, coupled with advanced materials, ensures both safety and comfort for patients in critical care situations. 2. What is an OPA? An OPA, or Oropharyngeal Airway, is a rigid device inserted through the mouth to prevent the tongue from obstructing the oropharynx. It is primarily used in unconscious patients who lack a gag reflex. Key Features of OPA: Material: Rigid plastic or rubber. Shape and Design: Curved to follow the anatomy of the palate and pharynx, with a flange to prevent over-insertion. Sizes: Available in various lengths to accommodate pediatric and adult patients. Applications: Commonly used in emergency settings, anesthesia, and airway management during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Indicated for unconscious patients with no gag reflex to prevent airway obstruction caused by the tongue or soft tissues of the mouth. 3. Key Differences Between NPA and OPA 4. Advantages and Disadvantages NPA Advantages: Can be used in patients with intact gag reflex. Effective for conscious or semi-conscious individuals. Less risk of inducing vomiting or laryngospasm compared to an OPA. NPA Disadvantages: Risk of nasal trauma or bleeding during insertion. Contraindicated in basal skull fractures due to potential brain injury. May cause discomfort or irritation, especially in long-term use. OPA Advantages: Simple and quick to insert with minimal training. Highly effective in maintaining airway patency in unconscious patients. Prevents tongue-related airway obstruction during resuscitation or surgery. OPA Disadvantages: Cannot be used in conscious patients or those with an intact gag reflex. Risk of inducing vomiting or laryngospasm if used incorrectly. Not suitable for patients with oral trauma or jaw clenching. 5. Choosing Between NPA and OPA The choice between NPA and OPA depends on the patient's condition, level of consciousness, and the clinical scenario: Use NPA when: The patient is conscious or semi-conscious. There is a need to maintain airway patency in the presence of oral trauma or trismus (jaw clenching). The patient has a gag reflex that contraindicates OPA use. Use OPA when: The patient is unconscious and lacks a gag reflex. The primary cause of airway obstruction is the tongue or soft palate. A simple, quick solution is needed during resuscitation. 6. Conclusion NPA and OPA are both essential tools in airway management, each with specific indications and contraindications. Understanding their differences, appropriate use cases, and insertion techniques is crucial for effective airway management. Proper assessment of the patient's condition and anatomy will guide clinicians in selecting the most suitable device, ensuring optimal outcomes in emergencies and critical care scenarios.

In order to make safer and more effective decisions quickly in emergency situations, it is very necessary to know the applicability of the two airway tools. This is very helpful for first responders, medical staff or ordinary people who want first aid knowledge. As a supplier of airway management products, Bever Medical will share with you when to use NPA instead of OPA today. Differences Between NPA and OPA Functions   Nasal pharyngeal airways (NPA) and oropharyngeal airways (OPA) are commonly used airway management products in clinical practice to maintain airway patency. They share similar purpose, but they differ significantly in design, mechanism of action, and applicable scenarios:   1. NPA Functions  NPA (Nasal pharyngeal airways) is a soft, tubular device inserted through the nasal passage to extend into the nasopharynx, creating an artificial airway. It bypasses soft tissue obstructions in the upper airway, ensuring airflow in cases where the patient cannot open their mouth. Its flexible material and lubricated surface enhance patient comfort during insertion, making it particularly suitable for patients with intact gag reflexes.   2. OPA Functions  OPA (oropharyngeal airways), made of rigid, curved plastic, is inserted through the mouth and positioned along the tongue to reach the posterior pharyngeal wall. It prevents airway obstruction by displacing the tongue anteriorly, thus maintaining a clear passage. Due to its firm design and direct interaction with the tongue, OPA is most appropriate for unconscious patients without a gag reflex, as its use in conscious individuals may induce discomfort or vomiting.   Pre-Lubricated Nasal Airway Scenarios for Using NPA   1. Patients Unable to Open Their Mouths   NPA is ideal for patients with clenched jaws or oral injuries, such as those experiencing a seizure. It provides an alternative airway route through the nasal passage when the oral route is inaccessible.   2. Patients with an Intact Gag Reflex   For conscious or semi-conscious patients, OPA is often intolerable due to its rigid structure and potential to trigger the gag reflex. NPA, being softer and less invasive, is a more comfortable and viable option.   3. Presence of Facial or Oral Trauma   In cases of facial burns, maxillofacial fractures, or oral trauma where the use of OPA is contraindicated, NPA can bypass the affected area and provide effective airway support.   4. Temporary Airway Support   NPA is frequently used in emergency situations requiring short-term airway management, such as during CPR or at accident scenes, due to its quick insertion and ease of use.   Scenarios for Using OPA   1. Unconscious Patients   OPA is highly effective for unconscious patients, such as those under general anesthesia or in cardiac arrest, as it prevents the tongue from collapsing and obstructing the airway.   2. Patients Without a Gag Reflex   Since OPA contacts the posterior pharyngeal wall, it may provoke gagging or vomiting in patients with an intact reflex. Therefore, it is only suitable for unconscious individuals lacking this reflex.   3. Long-Term Airway Support   In scenarios requiring a stable airway for a prolonged period, such as intraoperative or postoperative care, OPA ensures a reliable airway while allowing easy access for healthcare monitoring.   4. Emergency Airway Management   In hospital or pre-hospital settings, OPA is often the first choice for managing airway obstruction in unconscious patients due to its rapid deployment and effectiveness.   Factors Influencing the Choice Between NPA and OPA   Selecting between NPA and OPA requires a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition. Key factors include:   1. Patient’s Level of Consciousness   For conscious or semi-conscious patients, NPA is preferred as it avoids stimulation of the posterior pharyngeal wall, reducing discomfort. Conversely, OPA is better suited for unconscious patients requiring stable airway support.   2. Anatomical Considerations   Structural anomalies, such as nasal septal deviation, may hinder NPA insertion. Similarly, oral abnormalities, such as maxillofacial trauma or severe dental malocclusion, may limit OPA use.   3. Urgency of the Situation   In critical airway emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, OPA is often chosen for its rapid insertion and immediate resolution of obstructions. If the mouth cannot be accessed, NPA becomes the only viable option.   4. Patient History   Patients with a history of nasal bleeding or nasal surgery may not be suitable for NPA. Similarly, individuals allergic to latex should avoid using latex-based OPA devices.   Risks and Precautions for Using NPA and OPA   1. Risks Associated with NPA   Nasal Bleeding: Improper insertion or fragile nasal mucosa can cause bleeding. Adequate lubrication and avoiding forceful insertion minimize this risk.   Sinus Infection: Prolonged NPA use increases the risk of infection, necessitating regular replacement and sterile handling.   Misplacement: Incorrect placement may result in airway obstruction or even aspiration.  2. Risks Associated with OPA   Vomiting and Aspiration: OPA may induce gagging and vomiting in patients with a functional gag reflex, potentially leading to aspiration of gastric contents into the lungs.   Oral Trauma: Excessive force during insertion may damage teeth or oral tissues.   Worsened Obstruction: Incomplete insertion of OPA can push the tongue backward, exacerbating airway blockage.   3. Common Precautions   Both two airway management products must use appropriately sized devices to ensure effective and comfortable insertion.   Closely monitor the patient's breathing post-insertion to confirm airway patency.   Adhere to strict aseptic techniques to prevent infections.   Conclusion   Although this article provides the situation of choosing NPA instead of OPA, there are some situations that need to be combined with patient needs. Simply put, NPA is more suitable for patients with trismus, gag reflex, or facial trauma. Additionally, high-quality airway management products like those provided by Bever Medical are made of safe PVC and silicon medical materials. And OE services can meet the needs of patients and provide them with suitable materials and designs, providing safer and more comfortable solutions for airway management.

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!

A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) is used in emergencies to help open the patient's airway, ensuring unobstructed breathing. It is particularly suitable for semi-conscious or drowsy patients at risk of airway obstruction. In emergency settings, NPAs also help healthcare professionals in ventilation procedures. However, an NPA that is too long can lead to complications or injury. Today, Bever Medical will share the potential complications caused by an NPA that is too long,  and guide on selecting the right size for airway management products. What is the Complication of an NPA that is too Long?  Airway Obstruction   If the NPA extends too far, it may press against the epiglottis or the posterior pharyngeal wall, causing severe airway obstruction and worsening breathing difficulties. Additionally, foreign bodies or dried secretions can become lodged in the airway tube, leading to airway blockage. In semi-conscious patients, inserting an airway tube may trigger coughing or laryngospasm, potentially resulting in severe airway obstruction, especially if the airway's tip contacts the epiglottis or vocal cords. Nasal Bleeding   If the NPA is too long, it may exert excessive friction and pressure on the nasal cavity, causing nasal bleeding. Patients with coagulation issues or those on anticoagulants are at higher risk for severe nasal bleeding. If bleeding originates from the anterior nasal vessels, applying pressure to the nasal area may help; if the posterior nasal vessels are bleeding, it may be necessary to leave the NPA in place, suction the pharynx, and ensure adequate ventilation. In cases where bleeding persists, intubation may be considered. Central Nervous System Injury   In patients with basal skull fractures, an excessively long NPA could penetrate the nasal cavity and reach the cranial cavity, leading to central nervous system injury and serious complications. Pharyngeal Ulcers and Necrosis   Prolonged placement of an NPA, especially one that is too rigid or too large, may lead to ulcers in the nasal or pharyngeal area. Hard or oversized NPAs can cause sustained pressure on the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, resulting in tissue compression and ischemia, leading to ulcers. Long-term placement also raises the risk of infection; caregivers should monitor for signs of pressure ulcers or sinusitis for prompt management. Risk of Aspiration or Ingestion   Using an NPA that is too long may increase the risk of aspiration into the pharynx or trachea, potentially leading to obstruction of the lower respiratory tract or even ingestion into the stomach, which can cause choking or gastrointestinal injury. Moreover, inserting the airway may trigger a gag reflex, raising intracranial pressure, which can complicate or create new injuries. Care providers should carefully monitor the patient's condition to reduce aspiration risks, quickly clearing any potential contaminants if the patient begins to vomit or experiences airway bleeding. How to Prevent Complications When Using an NPA Choose the Correct Airway Tube Size  Selecting the appropriate size and softness of the NPA is crucial to preventing complications. Oversized tubes can unnecessarily press on the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, leading to ulcers, bleeding, or other injuries; undersized tubes may not effectively maintain airway patency. Softer materials are preferable for extended use, as they reduce irritation to the nasal walls, lowering the risk of ulcers and infection. Alternate Between Left and Right Nasal Passages   For patients requiring long-term NPA use, alternating between the left and right nostrils daily can reduce the risk of tissue damage and ulcers from prolonged pressure on one side, allowing both nasal passages to rest and recover. Regularly Humidify the Tube and Nasal Passage   Regular humidification of the NPA and nasal cavity helps maintain mucosal moisture, preventing dryness and irritation. Because dry environments can cause the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa to crack, increasing the likelihood of ulcers and infection. So, using humidifiers, nasal sprays, or saline to alleviate discomfort in the nasal and pharyngeal area. How to Select the Proper Size for an NPA? Length: Measure the distance from the patient's nostril to the earlobe. This approximate length helps ensure the NPA's tip reaches the posterior pharyngeal wall without being too long or too short. Diameter: The airway tube's diameter should match the patient's nostril size to avoid being too tight or too loose. Generally, the diameter should be close to the width of the patient's little finger. Sizing for Children: Extra care should be taken when selecting an NPA size for children. Smaller-diameter tubes are typically recommended, and the length should be confirmed to avoid excessive length that could irritate. Adjustment and Testing: It is wise to apply a lubricant before insertion, as it can reduce friction and discomfort. Observe the patient's reaction during insertion to ensure the appropriate fit and maintain an open airway. Final Thoughts To ensure the safety and comfort of patients using an NPA, healthcare providers should follow the proper insertion steps, select the correct tube size, and closely monitor the patient's condition. These precautions help reduce complications and improve emergency care outcomes. Selecting high-quality airway management products, like those offered by Bever Medical, provides reliable support for both medical personnel and patients. For more information, please contact our professional team to learn how to choose the right equipment for your emergency needs.

Despite oral tracheal intubation being widely regarded as the preferred airway method, nasal tracheal intubation may be a better choice in specific cases, such as facial injuries or restricted airways. Therefore, healthcare providers must quickly choose right airway management according to the patient's situation. To help you know these two methods better, Bever Medical will share oral and nasal airway management and explain the differences between them. Oral Airway An Oral Airway, or Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA), helps keep the patient’s airway open by preventing the tongue from covering the epiglottis. When a patient loses consciousness, an OPA can be inserted to maintain an open airway. However, a conscious patient usually finds it uncomfortable and may attempt to push it out. When inserting an OPA, be cautious if the patient has a history of neck trauma to protect the cervical spine and avoid further injury. Maintaining an open airway is essential in emergency care, so proper use of the OPA is a critical step in ensuring patient safety. Insertion Steps 1. Preparation Equipment: Select an appropriately sized OPA, measured from the patient’s earlobe to the corner of the mouth. Lubrication: Prepare lubricant to assist with insertion. Personal Protection: Wear gloves and safety goggles. Additional protective gear, such as a mask and gown, may be required for personal safety. 2. Insertion Procedure Open the Mouth: Use your fingers or a suitable tool to gently open the patient’s mouth, avoiding placing fingers between the teeth to prevent bites. Insert the OPA: Insert the curved part of the OPA sideways with the tip pointing toward the cheek. Push the OPA: Gently push the OPA into the patient’s mouth. When you cannot push it further, rotate the OPA 90 degrees so the tip points toward the throat, and continue inserting. Full Insertion: Use the curve of the tongue, if necessary, to fully insert the OPA, ensuring the flange (the wide, flat end) rests against the patient’s lips for stability. 3. Check Position Ensure the OPA tip does not push the tongue downward or obstruct the back of the throat. Confirm airway patency to allow effective ventilation. Precautions Continuously monitor the patient's breathing and reaction during insertion. Take extra care if the patient has a history of neck trauma to prevent further injury. When Are They Used? Oral airways are typically used when someone is unconscious because their jaw muscles relax, causing the tongue to obstruct the airway. They can also be used during CPR to assist ventilation. Green Nasopharyngeal Airway Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) A Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA), particularly a PVC nasopharyngeal airway, is generally better tolerated in semi-conscious patients or those at risk of airway obstruction from an oropharyngeal airway. However, an NPA should not be used in patients with head and facial injuries. Insertion Steps 1. Select the Appropriate Size Measure from the bottom of the nostril to the earlobe to determine the correct NPA size. The NPA’s diameter should be smaller than the patient’s nasal passage. 2. Evaluate Nasal Passage Check the nasal passage to ensure there is no visible airway obstruction. 3. Lubricate the NPA Ensure the NPA is adequately lubricated before insertion. 4. Insert the NPA Insert the NPA into the nostril, guiding it along the nasal floor towards the throat until the wide, flat part of the tube rests against the nostril. 5. Provide Oxygen If possible, provide supplemental oxygen to improve the patient's oxygenation. When to Use an NPA? An NPA is useful for semi-conscious patients who retain reflexes, such as swallowing and coughing, or when an OPA may cause airway blockage. It’s also an effective alternative for patients at risk of airway obstruction from an OPA. Advantages and Disadvantages Oral Airway (OPA) Advantages Effective Airway Maintenance: The OPA effectively prevents the tongue from sliding backward, ensuring an open airway for unconscious patients. Ease of Use: OPA insertion is relatively simple, allowing emergency responders to quickly apply it in critical situations. Broad Applicability: The OPA is widely used in various emergency settings, including trauma, cardiac arrest, and respiratory failure, making it a staple in emergency kits. Disadvantages Not Suitable for Conscious Patients: OPAs are only for unconscious patients. Conscious patients often experience significant discomfort and may try to expel it, potentially causing a gag reflex and complicating airway management. Risk of Vomiting: OPA insertion can stimulate the patient’s throat, potentially causing vomiting in semi-conscious or drowsy patients, which increases the risk of aspiration. Risk of Facial or Oral Injury: OPA is unsuitable for patients with facial or oral injuries, as it may worsen the condition. Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) Advantages Suitable for Patients with Reflexes: NPAs are better for semi-conscious patients who retain reflexes such as swallowing or coughing, effectively maintaining airway patency. Better Tolerance: Since the NPA is inserted through the nose and doesn’t stimulate the throat directly, conscious patients often tolerate it better, reducing interference with airway management. Safer for Certain Situations: NPA is safer for patients with facial or oral injuries as it enters through the nose, avoiding further trauma to the mouth or face. Disadvantages Not for Patients with Head or Facial Trauma: If a patient has head or facial trauma, especially with a risk of basilar skull fracture, using an NPA could potentially drive the tube into the cranial cavity, leading to serious complications. Inserting Technique Requirements: Inserting an NPA requires skill and experience to avoid damaging nasal structures, especially in patients with narrow or obstructed nasal passages. Possible Nasal Bleeding: Improper insertion or lack of experience can cause nasal bleeding, making airway management more challenging. Conclusion Both the Oral Airway (OPA) and Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) have unique advantages and suitable scenarios. Proper selection and technique can help healthcare providers rapidly maintain an open airway in emergencies, improving rescue success rates. Bever Medical offers a range of reliable and safe OPA and NPA tools, dedicated to supporting healthcare providers in achieving efficient, professional airway management in various emergency situations. To learn more or to order products, please visit the Bever Medical official website and ensure your emergency equipment meets the highest standards.

The nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) can help prevent airway obstruction in unconscious patients by preventing the tongue from falling back. And the NPA inner length can affect airway patency, if healthcare professionals do not use the correct size NPA, it may affect the patient's breathing. Therefore, it is important to use the correct size nasopharyngeal airway. This article is a guide on how to measure the right size NPA, without further ado, let's deeply dive into it.  PVC Nasopharyngeal Airway Nasopharyngeal Airway The nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), is a thin, transparent, flexible tube inserted into a patient's nostril, commonly used in emergency care, anesthesia, and intensive care settings. It can be used for patients of all ages, from newborns to old, to help maintain a clear airway in conscious or semi-conscious individuals. In short, NPA can clear blockages in the upper airway at the nose, nasopharynx, or base of the tongue to stop the tongue from sliding back against the throat, which helps reduce the risk of airway obstruction. Guide to Measure and Inset a Nasopharyngeal Airway Tool preparation Nasopharyngeal airways (NPA) in various sizes Gloves for hygiene and safety Water-soluble lubricant to facilitate insertion   Steps Confirming Patient Age There are significant differences in nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) sizes between children and adults, it's essential to confirm the patient's age before measurement and prepare the appropriate NPA size. Choosing the Right NPA Size The diameter of the NPA is typically proportional to its length; larger NPAs are generally longer as well. An appropriate size not only maintains airway patency but also ensures correct placement in the nasopharynx.   Measuring Tips: Place the NPA from the patient's nose tip to the earlobe; the correct length will be the point where it fits snugly.   Average Size for Females: 6-7 mm diameter   Average Size for Males: 7-8 mm diameter   Size for Children: Diameter typically ranges from 4-7 mm   Lubricating the NPA After the size is determined, remember to use a water-soluble lubricant to adequately coat the NPA. This helps ensure smooth insertion, reduces patient discomfort, and minimizes damage to the nasal mucosa.   Insertion Correctly Keep the patient head tilt and elevate the chin, or use the chin lift technique to open the airway. This position facilitates a smoother insertion of the NPA and reduces resistance. Insertion Tips When inserting the nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), angle the NPA's bevel toward the nasal septum and gently advance it along the floor of the nasal cavity, avoiding any upward force. The entire insertion process should be smooth and steady until the NPA reaches the oropharynx.  After insertion, closely monitor the patient’s breathing to ensure the airway is patent. You can assess this by observing, listening, and feeling for normal breath sounds and airflow. Note: The personnel inserting and handling the NPA must have the appropriate professional training to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.   Contraindications for NPA Use Active Nasal Bleeding: Do not insert an NPA in patients with nasal bleeding to prevent the worsening of the condition. Facial Trauma: The use of NPA is prohibited, especially in cases of basal skull fractures, as it may inadvertently enter the cranial cavity. Severe Respiratory Infections: Infections can cause damage to the nasal cavity and oropharynx, worsening the patient’s condition. Coagulopathy or Anticoagulant Use: These conditions may increase the risk of bleeding, so NPA use should be avoided in such patients. Potential Complications Nasal Bleeding (Epistaxis) Nasal or Septal Injury Sinus Infection Misplacement into the Trachea or Esophagus Intracranial Insertion  Discomfort or Pain  Practical Tips to Avoid Complications Ensure the patient has no contraindications, especially regarding basal skull fractures or nasal bleeding. Use a water-soluble lubricant to adequately lubricate the NPA, minimizing friction during insertion. Maintain the correct insertion angle and perform the procedure gently, advancing along the floor of the nasal cavity while avoiding direct upward pressure, thus reducing stress on the nasal septum. By employing correct techniques and careful handling, complications can be effectively minimized, ensuring that the patient’s airway remains open and respiratory function is preserved. Conclusion Learning to master the correct size nasopharyngeal airway can help a lot and save time. And following the above tips you can measure and insert the nasopharyngeal airway,  to know the, can ensure the patient is safe. Additionally, you need to pay attention to the patient's situation and whether can use NPA. For healthcare professionals seeking the best in patient care, consider partnering with a manufacturer of OEM nasopharyngeal airways. Bever can ensure your patients with reliable, effective airway management solutions, check these OEM products now.