Nasopharyngeal Airway

• Tolerated with intact gag reflex: Can be used in semi-conscious and fitting patients — more versatile than oropharyngeal airways in the pre-hospital setting.
• Soft PVC construction: Flexible and atraumatic on insertion. Conforms to nasal anatomy without rigid pressure on tissues.
• Safety pin included: Prevents over-insertion by acting as a stop at the nare.
• Multiple sizes: 6mm to 9mm internal diameter. Select based on patient size — see sizing guide in product description.
• Compact: Fits in standard IFAKs, trauma kits, and paramedic response bags.
• TGA-compliant: Meets Australian regulatory requirements for medical devices.
• Single use: Sterile, individually packaged.

What is a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA)?

A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), also called a nasopharyngeal tube or nasal trumpet, is a soft rubber tube inserted through a nostril and into the nasopharynx to maintain an open airway in an unconscious or semi-conscious patient. It prevents the tongue and soft tissues from obstructing the airway without requiring placement through the mouth. Used in pre-hospital care, trauma response, and advanced first aid.

What size nasopharyngeal airway do I need?

NPAs are sized by internal diameter in millimetres. For most adult patients, a 7mm NPA is the standard size carried in emergency kits. For larger adults, 8mm may be appropriate; for smaller adults, 6mm–6.5mm. The correct fit passes easily through the nostril without blanching the skin at the nare. Paediatric sizing is more complex and requires specific training.

What is the difference between an NPA and a Guedel (oropharyngeal) airway?

A Guedel airway is inserted through the mouth and is used only in fully unconscious patients with no gag reflex. An NPA is inserted through the nostril and can be used in patients who retain a gag reflex — semi-conscious, fitting, or clenching patients where a Guedel airway cannot be placed. In the pre-hospital setting, NPAs are generally more versatile. Many advanced kits carry both.

Do I need training to insert an NPA?

Yes. NPA insertion is a clinical skill taught in advanced first aid, paramedic, and trauma training courses. It requires knowledge of correct sizing, insertion technique, lubrication, safety pin placement, and contraindications including suspected base of skull fracture. Do not attempt NPA insertion without appropriate training.

What is an NPA used for in a trauma kit?

In a trauma context, an NPA is carried for airway management in unconscious or deteriorating patients where airway obstruction is a risk during transport or while awaiting advanced care. Standard in advanced trauma kits, military IFAKs, and paramedic response kits.

Are paediatric nasopharyngeal airways available?

Yes. Smaller sizes (typically 5mm–6mm internal diameter) are appropriate for paediatric patients. Paediatric NPA sizing and insertion requires specific training — anatomy and technique differ from adult use. Select the appropriate size from the product variants above. Contact us for guidance on paediatric airway equipment.

Do you also stock BVMs and bag valve masks?

Yes. Pocket BVMs, compact BVMs, and bag valve masks for ventilation support are available in the airway and breathing collection. A BVM is used alongside an NPA or other airway adjunct to provide positive pressure ventilation to a non-breathing or inadequately breathing patient.