NASOPHARYNGEAL AIRWAY Meaning and
Definition
-
A nasopharyngeal airway, also known as an NPA, is a medical device used to maintain an open and unobstructed pathway for air to flow through the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the throat behind the nose. It is a flexible tube made of soft material, typically silicone, with a tapered end and a flared base.
The purpose of a nasopharyngeal airway is to facilitate breathing in situations where the upper airway may become compromised or blocked, such as during unconsciousness, anesthesia administration, or in cases of oral or facial trauma. It is particularly useful when an oropharyngeal airway cannot be used due to the risk of gagging or causing injury to the oral cavity.
To insert a nasopharyngeal airway, the tapered end is gently guided into one of the nostrils and advanced into the back of the throat until the base rests near the opening of the nostrils. This helps to effectively bypass any obstructions and ensure proper airflow. The flared base prevents the device from becoming completely inserted into the nostril and facilitates easy removal.
Nasopharyngeal airways are available in various sizes to accommodate patients of different ages and sizes. They are often used by healthcare professionals in emergency settings, intensive care units, and during surgical procedures. Regular monitoring of the airway is essential to ensure adequate positioning and the prevention of complications such as nasal tissue damage or bleeding.
Etymology of NASOPHARYNGEAL AIRWAY
The word "nasopharyngeal" is derived from three root terms: "naso", "pharynx", and "al".
- "Naso" originates from the Latin word "nasus", meaning "nose".
- "Pharynx" comes from the Greek word "phárynx", which refers to the "throat" or "cavity behind the nasal passages and mouth".
- The suffix "al" is derived from Latin and is commonly used to form adjectives, in this case, indicating "relating to".
When combined, "nasopharyngeal" refers to something pertaining to both the nose and the pharynx, typically used to describe structures or conditions related to the region where the nose connects to the throat.
The word "airway" is simpler in terms of etymology.
