61 3
Intubation is the process of inserting a tube, called an endotracheal tube (ET), through the mouth and then into the airway. This is done so that a patient can be placed on a ventilator to assist with breathing during anesthesia, sedation, or severe illness. The tube is then connected to a ventilator, which pushes air into the lungs to deliver a breath to the patient.
When a patient must remain on the ventilator for an extended period of time. Common risks include:
Trauma to the teeth, mouth, tongue, and/or larynx
Accidental intubation in the esophagus (food tube) instead of the trachea (air tube)
Trauma to the trachea
Bleeding
Inability to be weaned from the ventilator, requiring tracheostomy.
Aspirating (inhaling) vomit, saliva or other fluids while intubated
Pneumonia, if aspiration occurs
Sore throat
Hoarseness
Erosion of soft tissue (with prolonged intubation)
Indoor public spaces, for the safety of all, be considerate... #wearafuckingmask
