Which airway adjunct is placed through the nose to help maintain airway patency?

Which airway adjunct is placed through the nose to help maintain airway patency?

• A. Nasopharyngeal (NPA)
• B. Oropharyngeal (OPA)
• C. Suctioning
• D. Nebulizer

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is how airway patency is maintained with devices placed by route. A nasopharyngeal airway is designed to be inserted through the nose and extend into the nasopharynx, where it acts as a stent to keep the airway open and prevent the tongue from occluding the airway. This route makes it useful for patients who may not tolerate an oral airway or who need a simple, passable airway while keeping the tongue from collapsing back. In contrast, an oropharyngeal airway goes in through the mouth and can provoke gagging in semi-conscious patients; suctioning isn’t a device that keeps the airway open, it removes secretions, and a nebulizer delivers medication, not a physical airway patency aid.

The concept being tested is how airway patency is maintained with devices placed by route. A nasopharyngeal airway is designed to be inserted through the nose and extend into the nasopharynx, where it acts as a stent to keep the airway open and prevent the tongue from occluding the airway. This route makes it useful for patients who may not tolerate an oral airway or who need a simple, passable airway while keeping the tongue from collapsing back. In contrast, an oropharyngeal airway goes in through the mouth and can provoke gagging in semi-conscious patients; suctioning isn’t a device that keeps the airway open, it removes secretions, and a nebulizer delivers medication, not a physical airway patency aid.