It would be appropriate to insert an NPA in patients who:

• A. Have facial trauma precluding nasal insertion
• B. Are in cardiac arrest
• C. Have AMS with intact gag reflex
• D. Are fully alert

Answer: (C)

Nasopharyngeal airway is used as a temporary airway aid in patients who are not fully conscious but still have some protective airway reflexes. It sits through the nose to keep the airway open without provoking as much gagging as an oral airway might. The key is that the patient’s gag reflex is intact, which means they can still clear secretions and protect the airway while the NPA helps prevent obstruction from the tongue or tissue collapse.

This makes it appropriate for someone with altered mental status who isn’t fully awake but can tolerate a nasal airway. It’s not suitable for someone with facial trauma that precludes nasal insertion, and it’s not ideal for a fully alert patient who can protect their airway and may find the device uncomfortable or provoke coughing or gagging.