The different types of medical devices used to maintain or open an individual’s airway include the oropharyngeal airway (OPA), nasopharyngeal airway (NPA), and endotracheal airway (ETA). The OPA is a medical device that is used to maintain or open an individual’s airway by preventing the tongue from covering the epiglottis, a small flap in the throat. The OPA is typically used in unresponsive individuals.  Meanwhile, the NPA is a tube that is passed through the nasal passageway to secure an open airway. NPAs are better tolerated than OPAs and may be considered when OPA use is difficult, such as when an individual’s jaw is clenched or the individual is responsive.  Lastly, an ETA is a plastic tube that is inserted through the mouth and into the trachea or windpipe. The ETA is then connected to a ventilator, which mechanically delivers oxygen to the lungs.