What is an
intubation?
Intubation is a general term referring to the placement of a tube
into a patient's body. The most common use of this term in the ICU
refers to placing a breathing tube into a patient's airway (endotracheal
intubation).
Why is endotracheal intubation needed?
Endotracheal intubation is necessary when patients can no longer
cough and clear secretions or breathe on their own.
How is endotracheal intubation done?
Patients needing endotracheal intubation usually have a serious
condition preventing them from breathing on their own. An
endotracheal tube (breathing tube) can be inserted through the mouth
or through the nose then advanced into the airway. Some patients do
not require much sedation when the endotracheal tube is inserted
through the nose. The breathing tube is slowly advanced into the
nose passage and then slips into the patient's airway. Patients
always require sedation when the endotracheal tube is inserted
through the mouth. The person placing the breathing tube uses a
small device called a laryngoscope to move the patient's tongue out
of the way to see the airway. The endotracheal tube is then inserted
while looking directly at the airway.
Does endotracheal intubation hurt?
If the breathing tube is placed through the nose, the patient will
feel some discomfort. The patient will receive sedation and pain
medications for this. If the breathing tube is placed through the
mouth, the patient will receive anesthesia. After the tube is in
place most patients have temporary difficulties with gagging that
slowly lessens with time. Patients can not speak or eat while the
breathing tube is in place.
Are there any potential complications
associated with use of an endotracheal tube?
Yes. The mouth, teeth, and upper airway can be damaged while the
tube is being placed. After the tube is in place the vocal cords can
be injured. The presence of the endotracheal tube places the patient
at risk for pneumonia.
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An endotracheal (ET) tube has been inserted into
this patient's airway through the mouth by a
procedure called endotracheal intubation. The tube
in the nose is called a nasogastric (NG) tube. |
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Endotracheal (ET) tube |
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Intubation 
