NCLEX Examination.
Practice Question # 809.
nclex examination
The endotracheal tube is used to maintain a patent airway.
- Endotracheal tubes are indicated when the client needs mechanical ventilation.
- If the client requires an artificial airway for longer than 10 to 14 days, a tracheostomy may be created to avoid mucosal and vocal cord damage that can be caused by the endotracheal tube.
- The cuff (located at the distal end of the tube), when inflated, produces a seal between the trachea and the cuff to prevent aspiration and ensure delivery of a set tidal volume when mechanical ventilation is used; an inflated cuff also prevents air from passing to the vocal cords, nose, or mouth.
- The pilot balloon permits air to be inserted into the cuff, prevents air from escaping, and is used as a guideline for determining the presence or absence of air in the cuff.
- The universal adapter enables attachment of the tube to mechanical ventilation tubing or other types of oxygen delivery systems.
- Types of tubes: Orotracheal and nasotracheal
