Letter: n

A nasoenteric tube placed nasally into the duodenum.

One of two cavities between the floor of the cranium and the roof of the mouth, opening to the nose anteriorly and the nasopharynx posteriorly. Its lining of highly vascularized, ciliated epithelium warms and moistens inhaled air, and traps dust and pathogens on mucus that is then swept toward the pharynx. The nasal septum (ethmoid and vomer) separates the nasal cavities.

Opening of the nose. The paired openings to the outside are the anterior nares (or nostrils). The paired openings at the back of the nasal cavity opening to the nasopharynx are the posterior nares.

1. adj,. pertaining to a substance that produces insensibility or stupor. 2. n, Narcotic drug. Narcotic analgesics, derived from opium or produced synthetically, alter perception of pain; induce euphoria, mood changes, mental clouding, and deep sleep; depress respiration and the cough reflex; constrict the pupils; and cause smooth muscle spasm, decreased peristalsis, emesis, and nausea. Opioid is now the preferred term.

NIOSH requires a respirator to pass the 0.3 micron sodium chloride test at 95 % efficiency to be labeled an N95. The N stands for not resistant to oil penetration. Respirators for use in some industrial applications may require respirators with an R (resistant to oil) or P (non-penetrated by oil). OSHA requires that a respiratory protection program be developed for the proper use of respirators including written procedures, medical screening, training, and fit testing.

After donning a disposable respirator, check the seal by cupping the hands over the respirator and exhaling. Feel along the edges to determine if there is any leakage.