What guidelines should I follow for the safe use of oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airways?

Guidelines for the safe use of oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airways are not explicitly detailed in the provided UK guideline excerpts. However, general principles for airway management in related contexts such as obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) emphasize careful assessment and monitoring of airway devices and patient tolerance.

For safe use, ensure that airway adjuncts are appropriately sized and inserted to maintain airway patency without causing trauma or obstruction. Monitor for complications such as nasal or oral mucosal injury, bleeding, or airway obstruction. Regularly assess the patient’s airway status and device fit, and adjust or remove the airway if adverse effects occur.

In the context of OSAHS, the guidelines highlight the importance of assessing nasal congestion and anatomical obstruction, which can impact airway device tolerance and effectiveness. Referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist is advised if symptoms persist or anatomical obstruction is suspected, which may be relevant when using nasopharyngeal airways.

Additionally, infection prevention and control measures should be followed, especially in hospital settings or during pandemics, to reduce the risk of cross-infection when using airway devices.

For detailed, device-specific guidance on oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airway use, consult dedicated airway management protocols or national resuscitation council guidelines.

Summary:

• Use appropriately sized airway adjuncts and insert carefully to avoid trauma.
• Monitor patient tolerance and airway patency continuously.
• Assess for nasal or oropharyngeal obstruction and refer to ENT if needed.
• Follow infection control precautions during device use.

These principles align with the general airway management and OSAHS-related recommendations in the NICE guideline NG202 ¹.