Introduction
An Endotracheal Tube (ET Tube) is a flexible tube inserted through the mouth or nose into the trachea to maintain a patent airway, provide oxygen, and facilitate mechanical ventilation. Endotracheal intubation is a life-saving procedure commonly performed in emergency departments, intensive care units (ICUs), operating rooms, and during resuscitation.
Connector (15 mm Adapter)
• Connects the ET tube to a bag-valve mask, ventilator, or anesthesia circuit.
Tube Shaft
• Main body of the tube.
• Transparent to allow visualization of secretions.
Depth Markings
• Numerical markings along the tube.
• Help determine insertion depth and positioning.
Radiopaque Line
• Visible on X-ray.
• Helps confirm tube placement.
Cuff
• Inflatable balloon near the distal end.
• Creates a seal within the trachea and prevents aspiration.
Pilot Balloon
• External balloon connected to the cuff.
• Indicates whether the cuff is inflated.
Inflation Valve
• Used to inflate or deflate the cuff with air.
Murphy Eye
• Additional opening near the tip.
• Allows airflow if the main opening becomes blocked.
Beveled Tip
• Angled distal end that facilitates passage through the vocal cords.
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Indications for Endotracheal Intubation
Endotracheal intubation is performed when a patient cannot maintain an adequate airway or ventilation.
Common Indications
1. Respiratory failure
2. Airway obstruction
3. Cardiac arrest
4. Severe trauma
5. Decreased level of consciousness (GCS ≤ 8)
6. Severe hypoxemia
7. Need for mechanical ventilation
8. Major surgery requiring general anesthesia
9. Protection against aspiration
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Uses of an Endotracheal Tube
• Maintains airway patency.
• Delivers oxygen directly to the lungs.
• Provides mechanical ventilation.
• Protects against aspiration of gastric contents.
• Facilitates suctioning of respiratory secretions.
• Allows administration of certain emergency medications (historically, though less common today).
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Nursing Role in Endotracheal Intubation
Before Intubation
• Prepare airway equipment and emergency drugs.
• Check ET tube size and cuff integrity.
• Ensure suction equipment is functional.
• Monitor vital signs and oxygen saturation.
• Assist with patient positioning.
During Intubation
• Assist the physician or advanced practitioner.
• Provide equipment as needed.
• Monitor ECG, SpO₂, blood pressure, and heart rate.
• Observe for complications.
After Intubation
• Confirm tube placement:
• Bilateral chest rise
• Breath sounds
• End-tidal CO₂ monitoring
• Chest X-ray
• Secure the ET tube.
• Record tube size and depth.
• Monitor cuff pressure (20–30 cm H₂O).
• Provide oral hygiene and suctioning.
• Assess for complications such as:
• Accidental extubation
• Tube obstruction
• Aspiration
• Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP)
Ongoing Nursing Care
• Continuous respiratory assessment.
• Regular suctioning when indicated.
• Maintain adequate humidification.
• Prevent pressure injuries around the mouth.
• Monitor ventilator settings and alarms.
• Document patient response and airway status.
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Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI)
Definition
Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI) is an emergency airway management technique involving the rapid administration of a sedative (induction agent) followed immediately by a neuromuscular blocking agent to facilitate endotracheal intubation while minimizing the risk of aspiration.
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Indications for RSI
• Respiratory failure
• Severe hypoxia
• Altered mental status
• Airway compromise
• Trauma patients
• Risk of aspiration
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Steps of RSI (7 Ps)
Preparation
• Airway assessment
• Equipment preparation
• Monitoring setup
Pre-oxygenation
• 100% oxygen for 3–5 minutes if possible.
Pretreatment
• Selected medications when indicated.
Paralysis with Induction
• Sedative agent followed by paralytic agent.
Protection and Positioning
• Proper patient positioning and airway protection.
Placement of ET Tube
• Intubation using laryngoscopy or video laryngoscopy.
Post-intubation Management
• Confirm placement.
• Secure tube.
• Initiate ventilation.
• Provide sedation and analgesia.
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Nursing Responsibilities During RSI
• Prepare RSI medications and airway equipment.
• Monitor ECG, SpO₂, blood pressure, and capnography.
• Assist with pre-oxygenation.
• Administer medications as ordered.
• Assist during intubation.
• Confirm ET tube placement.
• Document procedure details and patient response.
• Continue monitoring after intubation.
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Conclusion
The Endotracheal Tube (ET Tube) is an essential device for airway management and mechanical ventilation. Understanding its parts, indications, uses, and nursing responsibilities is crucial for safe patient care. Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI) is a structured emergency procedure that enables rapid airway control while reducing the risk of aspiration and hypoxia, making it a vital skill in critical care and emergency medicine.
