What is a contraindication for nasopharyngeal airway use?

A contraindication for nasopharyngeal airway use is evident head injury. This is because inserting a nasopharyngeal airway can potentially cause further injury or trauma if the patient has a skull fracture, particularly involving the base of the skull. In such cases, the airway may enter the cranial cavity, leading to serious complications like cerebrospinal fluid leak or increased intracranial pressure.

Other situations, like unconsciousness and respiratory distress, do not automatically preclude the use of a nasopharyngeal airway; in fact, they may be indications for its use if the airway needs to be maintained. Similarly, age over 50 is not a direct contraindication, although individual considerations may apply based on the specific condition of the patient.