The EMT should remembered that there is a possibility of bleeding of the nasal airway even if the nasopharyngeal airway is inserted correctly. Nasopharyngeal airways are used to ensure that the airway of an unconscious patient do not become obstructed by their tongue due to the relaxation of their jaw muscles.
A Nasopharyngeal (NPA) can also damage the olfactory nerve if not incerted and/or sized correctly. Also, make sure you lubricate the NPA prior to incertion, to minimize damage to the nasal passage.
