When manual maneuvers are insufficient—for example, in patients with significant facial trauma, obesity, or heavy secretions—rescuers often turn to basic airway adjuncts. These devices are designed to maintain an open airway by physically preventing the tongue or other soft tissues from obstructing the pharynx.
The NPA is a soft, flexible rubber or silicone tube that is inserted through one nostril into the pharynx. It is an excellent alternative to the OPA because it can often be used in patients with a gag reflex (e.g., those who are semi‑conscious). opander medical cpr
: Even the fastest emergency response units can take several minutes to arrive, which is often too late if no one has started chest compressions. When manual maneuvers are insufficient—for example