Which statement about nasal airways after removal of a BVM is true?

Which statement about nasal airways after removal of a BVM is true?

• A. The nasal airway should always be discarded after removal.
• B. A nasal airway can be reused only if the patient remains cooperative.
• C. A nasal airway should be replaced only if there is a contraindication.
• D. If the patient remains comfortable with nasal airway and there is no contraindication; the provider should replace as needed.

Answer: (D)

The point is that a nasal airway is used to keep the airway open when you’re not actively delivering breaths with a BVM, and you shouldn’t discard it after removing the mask. If the patient continues to need an open airway and tolerates the device, you should replace or reinsert the nasal airway as needed, as long as there are no contraindications. This approach helps maintain patency without forcing a change in the airway plan. Be mindful of contraindications such as suspected basilar skull fracture or significant facial trauma, which would preclude nasal airway use. In practice, choose the correct size, lubricate, insert with the bevel toward the septum, and monitor comfort and airway patency while re-establishing ventilation as indicated.

The point is that a nasal airway is used to keep the airway open when you’re not actively delivering breaths with a BVM, and you shouldn’t discard it after removing the mask. If the patient continues to need an open airway and tolerates the device, you should replace or reinsert the nasal airway as needed, as long as there are no contraindications. This approach helps maintain patency without forcing a change in the airway plan. Be mindful of contraindications such as suspected basilar skull fracture or significant facial trauma, which would preclude nasal airway use. In practice, choose the correct size, lubricate, insert with the bevel toward the septum, and monitor comfort and airway patency while re-establishing ventilation as indicated.