Asked by Michael Russ II on May 02, 2024
Verified
The nurse is assessing a patient with an endotracheal tube and notes an audible air leak when standing by the patient.Which intervention should the nurse perform first to address this problem?
A) Deflating the cuff of the endotracheal tube
B) Repositioning the patient or tube
C) Inserting a new endotracheal tube
D) Notifying the health care provider
Endotracheal Tube
A tube placed through the mouth into the trachea to maintain an open airway, deliver oxygen, or administer anesthesia.
Audible Air Leak
A sound indicating the escape of air through an unintended opening, commonly assessed in medical settings like lung surgery.
Deflating Cuff
A component of some tracheostomy tubes that can be inflated or deflated to secure the tube in place and provide a seal within the trachea.
- Understand and apply the first step in addressing an audible air leak in patients with an endotracheal tube.
Verified Answer
AP
Anagha PadwalMay 05, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
If an air leak is audible with the ear,it is too large.Repositioning the patient or the tube may correct the problem.Reinflation of the cuff may be necessary.Prepare for insertion of a new tube by the health care provider or trained personnel if the cuff ruptures.Repositioning and reinflating the cuff are performed before the health care provider is notified.
Learning Objectives
- Understand and apply the first step in addressing an audible air leak in patients with an endotracheal tube.