Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) — Size: 28F with Lubricant

Field Brief

Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) — 28F PVC Nasal Airway with Surgical Lubricant

Overview
Airway obstruction is one of the most immediate life-threatening complications in trauma. Reduced consciousness, head injury, or airway relaxation can allow the tongue and soft tissues to block airflow. A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) helps maintain a clear breathing passage by creating a channel through the nasal cavity into the upper airway.

The 28 French NPA is widely considered the most commonly carried adult size. It provides effective airflow while still being small enough to fit most adult nasal passages comfortably. For this reason, 28F is frequently sold as a single standalone airway rather than only in multi-size packs. This version includes surgical lubricant to assist with rapid, low-friction insertion in emergency conditions.

How It Works
A nasopharyngeal airway is a soft, flexible tube inserted through the nostril into the nasopharynx. Once positioned, it creates a pathway that allows air to move between the nose and the upper airway even when soft tissue obstruction is present.

The flexible PVC construction allows the airway to conform to the nasal passage while minimizing irritation during insertion. The included lubricant helps the airway slide smoothly into position, which is especially important when treating a patient quickly in stressful conditions. The flared end of the airway prevents it from advancing too far and helps keep the device securely positioned once placed.

Key Benefits

• Maintains an open airway when soft tissue or tongue obstruction restricts breathing
  • 28 French size fits a large percentage of adult patients
  • Flexible PVC construction improves comfort and reduces insertion trauma
  • Includes surgical lubricant for smoother, safer placement
  • Compact design integrates easily into trauma kits and IFAKs
  • Often tolerated by semi-conscious patients who cannot tolerate oral airways

Recommended Applications

• Individual first aid kits (IFAKs)
  • Vehicle trauma kits
  • Range bags and field medical kits
  • Workplace emergency preparedness kits
  • Law enforcement or tactical medical gear
  • Remote or austere environment medical kits

Why This Product
Airway management is one of the core priorities of trauma care. While bleeding control tools often receive the most attention, an obstructed airway can become fatal just as quickly. A nasopharyngeal airway provides a simple, compact tool that helps maintain airflow when a patient cannot protect their airway on their own.

The 28 French size is commonly carried because it fits most adult patients while still allowing effective airflow. This balance between fit and functionality is why many trauma kits include a single 28F airway rather than multiple sizes. In space-limited kits such as IFAKs or vehicle trauma kits, carrying a single versatile airway helps maintain airway capability without adding unnecessary bulk.

Specifications

Size: 28 French
Material: Medical-grade PVC
Included Items: Nasopharyngeal airway and surgical lubricant packet
NSN: 6515-01-444-5416