Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What is a risk of using NPA in a patient with a severe head injury?

1. Increased airway resistance

2. Worsening of a nasal fracture

3. Blood draining from the nose

4. Improper airway placement

The correct answer is: Blood draining from the nose

Using a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) in a patient with a severe head injury carries specific risks, particularly concerning the potential for blood drainage from the nose. In cases of severe head injuries, there may be associated skull fractures, including those involving the nasal or facial bones. The insertion of an NPA can complicate these injuries by causing or exacerbating bleeding from the nasal passages or sinuses. This is particularly critical because it may indicate significant trauma to the brain or the cranial cavity, leading to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks or further complicating an already delicate situation. Patients with severe head injuries are also at risk of other complications as their overall neurological status may be compromised. Therefore, if blood is noted draining from the nose after NPA insertion, it is a sign to reassess the situation carefully, as it could suggest deeper issues related to cranial trauma. Recognizing this association helps guide appropriate management of airway access in trauma patients and the need for further evaluation by more advanced medical personnel.