Which nostril is the nasopharyngeal tube normally inserted into?

The nasopharyngeal tube is typically inserted into the right nostril because of the anatomy of the nasal passages. The right nasal passage is often more accessible for insertion due to the predominant curvature of the nasal cavity, which can vary from person to person. The tube is designed to bypass obstructions in the oral cavity and can provide an airway when a patient's condition may obstruct normal breathing.

Using the right nostril is a common practice among medical professionals, but it's important to highlight that the choice can still depend on individual anatomical differences or patient-specific factors. In cases where there is trauma or deformity, medical providers may choose differently. Hence, while the right nostril is often the preferred choice, it is not absolute that this must be the case. The key point is that the technique requires the clinician to ensure proper airway management while being mindful of the patient's specific anatomy and condition.