Endotracheal Intubation Essay

When a patient cannot control their airway, or cannot perform the act of respiration without assistance, the need for endotracheal intubation may arise. The practice of endotracheal intubation has been shown to provide a safe and patent airway, which can be mechanically ventilated when necessary. The use of an endotracheal tube also protects the patient by preventing aspiration when used correctly, and provides an extra rout for medication administration. The use of endotracheal tubes is very common, and provides many advantages in patient care. Tracheal tubes are not without fault though as unwanted side effects can occur. In more severe circumstances injury or exacerbation of the patient’s condition can also occur. The act of intubating a patient is considered an advanced procedure, and requires training and practice to perfect. A laryngoscope is used to displace the tongue and epiglottis and allow for visualization of the larynx. Once the vocal cords have been visualized, the tube
In an effort to avoid possible damage to the area, therapeutic guidelines dictate a mandatory cuff pressure ranging from 20 to 30 cm H20. Utilization of a correctly pressurized cuff has been shown to provide aspiration protection, while also providing an acceptable seal of the airway. Over-inflation a tracheal cuff in excess of 30 cm H20 has been found to cause damage to the tracheal mucosa; primarily caused by compromised capillary perfusion to the area. Research has also found pressures greater than 50 cm H20 will commonly cause a total obstruction or occlusion of tracheal blood flow, leading to necrotic tissue. When used in pre hospital settings, over inflation of the bulb or cuff is primarily an immediate situation that causes acute injury. Hyperinflation of the cuff, at levels above 50 cm H20 may lead to acute complications such as massive tracheal bleeding or