Which of the following is an advantage of using nasal masks?

Using nasal masks for noninvasive mechanical ventilation offers several advantages, among which enhanced secretion clearance is significant. This advantage arises from the design of nasal masks, which allows for better airflow and makes it easier for patients to clear secretions through coughing or other means. The ability to maintain a degree of comfort while ensuring effective ventilation means that patients can engage in activities like coughing that help clear mucus from their airways, thereby reducing the likelihood of complications such as pneumonia.

The other options emphasize potential drawbacks or negative outcomes associated with different aspects of ventilation but do not provide any advantages like the benefit of enhanced secretion clearance does. For example, while the risk of aspiration and decreased speech ability are valid concerns with other types of ventilation or with full-face masks, they are not advantages of using nasal masks. The comfort provided by nasal masks also helps minimize feelings of claustrophobia, making them generally preferable for many patients.