Figure 2-2. Measuring the nasopharyngeal airway.
NOTE:
Most nasal pharyngeal airways are made to fit the right nostril. If you have to
insert it into the left nostril, turn the airway upside down so that bevel remains
toward the septum, then insert it straight back until you reach the posterior
pharynx. Turn the airway 180 degrees until it lies behind the tongue.
c. Nasopharyngeal Insertion Procedures.
(1) Place the casualty on a firm surface in the supine position with the
cervical spine stabilized.
(2) Lubricate the NPA with a water-soluble lubricant (or tap water if lubricant
is not available).
(3)
Push the tip of the patient's nose slightly upward to expose the opening
in the nostril.
(4)
Keeping the head in a neutral position, insert the tip of the NPA through
the nostril.
(5) Slowly advance tube along floor of nasal cavity with bevel pointing
toward septum until flange rest firmly against casualty's nostril (figure 2-3).
(a) If resistance is met during insertion, do not continue to insert.
(b)
Stop, remove the adjunct, relubricate, and try the other nostril.
(c)
If resistance is still met, check proper size or use alternate artificial
airway method.
MD0542
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