When inserting a nasal pharyngeal airway, what is a key step to ensure proper placement?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of evaluating air movement to confirm that the nasal pharyngeal airway is properly placed. When inserting this type of airway, ensuring that there is unobstructed airflow is crucial. This can be done by feeling for air movement during ventilatory efforts. If the airway is correctly positioned, air should flow freely in and out, suggesting that it is properly placed and not obstructing the airway.

While determining the appropriate length of the airway by comparing the distance between the ear and chin is important for initial sizing, it does not confirm that the airway is properly functioning once inserted. Lubrication is also a critical step to ease the insertion process, but the type of lubricant used is subject to specific guidelines, especially in clinical settings, where petroleum-based products may not be advised due to potential risks. Additionally, inserting the tip to reach the epiglottis is not correct, as the goal is to place the airway in the nasal pharynx, not to reach the epiglottis, which could lead to complications or obstruction. The focus should always be on ensuring a clear passage for airflow, which is why feeling for that airflow movement is an essential step in confirming proper placement.