Which nostril preparation is listed for nasotracheal intubation in the protocol?

Which nostril preparation is listed for nasotracheal intubation in the protocol?

• A. PHENYLEPHRINE 1-2 sprays each nostril
• B. OXYMETAZOLINE 1-2 sprays each nostril & LIDOCAINE 2% lubricant
• C. Normal saline spray
• D. Alcohol wipe

Answer: (B)

During nasotracheal intubation, prepping the nostrils with both a vasoconstrictor and a local anesthetic helps make the passage smoother and reduces complications. Oxymetazoline provides rapid vasoconstriction, which minimizes mucosal bleeding and swelling. Lidocaine 2% lubricant both anesthetizes the nasal mucosa and lubricates the passage, decreasing pain and trauma as the tube is advanced. This combination directly supports safer, easier tube placement. Other options lack one or both of these benefits: a different vasoconstrictor is not the listed preparation, normal saline spray doesn’t constrict vessels or numb tissue, and an alcohol wipe would irritate the mucosa and offers no lubrication or anesthesia.

During nasotracheal intubation, prepping the nostrils with both a vasoconstrictor and a local anesthetic helps make the passage smoother and reduces complications. Oxymetazoline provides rapid vasoconstriction, which minimizes mucosal bleeding and swelling. Lidocaine 2% lubricant both anesthetizes the nasal mucosa and lubricates the passage, decreasing pain and trauma as the tube is advanced. This combination directly supports safer, easier tube placement.

Other options lack one or both of these benefits: a different vasoconstrictor is not the listed preparation, normal saline spray doesn’t constrict vessels or numb tissue, and an alcohol wipe would irritate the mucosa and offers no lubrication or anesthesia.