nasopharyngeal airways
A nasopharyngeal airway is a medical device used to maintain an open airway in patients who are unable to breathe adequately on their own. It is a flexible tube that is inserted through the nose and extends into the nasopharynx, the area behind the nose and above the throat. This device helps prevent airway obstruction by keeping the passage clear, especially in unconscious or semi-conscious patients.
Nasopharyngeal airways come in various sizes to accommodate different patients, and they are often used in emergency situations or during anesthesia. Proper insertion technique is crucial to avoid injury to the nasal passages or throat. Medical professionals, such as paramedics and anesthesiologists, commonly use this device in their practice.