To minimize the problems associated with pharyngeal aspiration in intubated patients, which of the following could you recommend?
1. Position patients in semi-recumbent position.
2. Insert the feeding tube into the duodenum.
3. Suction above the tracheal tube cuff.
4. Provide continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions.
a. 1 only
b. 1 and 2 only
c. 1, 2, 3, and 4
d. 2, 3, and 4 only
ANS: C
Ideally, the patient should be switched to a tube that continually aspirates subglottic secretions. If this is not possible, oropharyngeal suctioning (above the tube cuff) should be performed as needed. To decrease the possibility of aspiration with feedings, the head of the bed should be elevated 30 degrees when possible. Also, the feeding tube can be inserted into the duodenum, with its position confirmed by radiograph. The use of slightly higher cuff pressure during and after feedings may also minimize aspiration.
You might also like to view...
The cerebrum, cerebellum, and brainstem account for what percentage of the cranial volume?
A) 60 percent B) 80 percent C) 50 percent D) 75 percent
Which of the following clinical features are characteristics of hypoxemic respiratory failure? I. Pao2/Fio2 less than 300 II. respiratory distress III. respiratory rate less than 20 breaths/min IV. tachycardia
A. I, III only B. II, IV only C. I, II, IV only D. I, II, III, IV
During water rescue operations, a personal flotation device should be worn by anyone within ____ of the water.
a. 15 ft. b. 20 ft. c. 25 ft. d. 10 ft.
In utero, the ductus arteriosus functions:
A. within the fetal pulmonary circulation as a large vascular network that receives oxygenated blood from the mother. B. by connecting the left pulmonary artery and the aorta and diverting oxygenated blood away from the lungs. C. as a temporary opening between the right and left atria through which maternal oxygenated blood passes. D. by connecting the pulmonary veins directly to the vena cava so that deoxygenated blood can be removed by the mother