Word parts
What it means
The medical word for a nostril. Charts use it to describe where a tube or device is placed, such as a nasogastric tube in the right naris, or nasal cannula prongs in both nares. Nasal flaring, when the nares widen with each breath, is a sign of hard breathing, especially in infants.
For the nurse
Check the skin of the nares under nasogastric tubes and oxygen prongs each shift for redness or breakdown, and keep the tube taped so it does not press on the edge.
At a glance
| Everyday words | nostril |
|---|---|
| Spanish | narina, fosa nasal |
| Also written | nares |
Related terms
nasogastric tube
A thin, flexible tube passed through the nose and down the esophagus into the stomach.
nas/o
A word part that means nose.
nasal
Having to do with the nose.