Final answer:
The first thing you should do before inserting a nasopharyngeal airway is to position the patient correctly.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before inserting a nasoopharyngeal airway, the first thing you should do is ensure the patient is in the correct position. The patient's head should be tilted back and their neck extended to open up the airway. This position helps to align the oral, pharyngeal, and tracheal axes, making the insertion of the airway easier. By ensuring the patient is in the correct position, you can prevent complications and ensure the effectiveness of the nasopharyngeal airway.