(c) If no pulse is found, perform CPR if the combat situation allows and
send a soldier to seek medical help.
(9)
Continue administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and pulse checks
until:
(a) The casualty begins breathing on his own.
(b) You are relieved by a qualified person, such as the combat medic.
(c)
You must seek medical help (no pulse).
(d) You must continue with your combat duties.
(e) You are too exhausted to continue.
3-7.
INSERTING A NASOPHARYNGEAL AIRWAY
A nasopharyngeal airway (see figure 3-6) provides an open (patent) airway and
helps to keep the tongue from falling to the back of the mouth and blocking the airway.
Instructions for inserting a nasopharyngeal airway are given below.
CAUTION:
Do not use the nasopharyngeal airway if the roof of the casualty's mouth
is fractured or brain matter is exposed.
CAUTION:
Do not use the nasopharyngeal airway if there is clear fluid
(cerebrospinal fluid [CSF]) coming from the ears or nose. This may
indicate a skull fracture.
a. Place the casualty on his back with his face up (see paragraph 2-5).
b. Lubricate the tube with water or sterile lubricating jelly (figure 3-7).
c. Insert the airway.
(1)
Expose the opening of the casualty's nostril (figure 3-8).
NOTE:
The casualty's right nostril is usually used.
(2)
Insert the tip of the airway tube into the nostril.
(3) Position the tube so that the bevel (pointed end) of the airway faces
toward the septum (the partition inside the nose that separates the nostrils).
(4) Insert the airway into the nostril and advance it until the flange rests
against the nostril (figures 3-9 and 3-10).
MD0877
3-9
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