What might happen if a nasopharyngeal airway is inserted incorrectly?

Inserting a nasopharyngeal airway incorrectly can lead to further injury for several reasons. The nasopharyngeal airway is designed to maintain clear airway passage by preventing the tongue from obstructing the throat. However, if it is inserted at the wrong angle or into the wrong anatomical location, it can cause trauma to the mucosal lining, damage to the nasal passages, or even the base of the skull in severe cases. This improper insertion can exacerbate existing injuries or create new complications, such as bleeding or infection.

The other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes of incorrect insertion. Enhancing breath sounds, improving circulation, and relieving coughing are not direct effects of improperly using a nasopharyngeal airway. In fact, incorrect insertion can lead to obstructed airways, worsening respiratory distress rather than alleviating any symptoms.