Nursing Airway Management

Nurses play a crucial role in managing patients' airways, which is essential for maintaining their breathing and overall health. This article will discuss various aspects of nursing airway management, including respiratory assessments, tracheostomy care, suctioning procedures, airway management techniques, and endotracheal tube management.

Respiratory Assessment

Respiratory assessments help nurses identify early signs of respiratory distress and prevent complications. Key elements of a respiratory assessment include observing the patient's breathing pattern and volume, listening for breath sounds, and using pulse oximetry to measure oxygen saturation levels. Regular assessments can detect changes in a patient's condition and prompt timely interventions if necessary.

Tracheostomy Care

Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the trachea to facilitate ventilation. Nurses must ensure proper tracheostomy care by cleaning the site daily, monitoring cuff pressures, administering medications through the tracheostomy, and maintaining accurate documentation. Improper care may lead to infection, bleeding, or other complications.

Suctioning Procedures

Suctioning procedures are used to remove secretions from the lower respiratory tract when patients have difficulty clearing these material themselves. Nurses perform suctioning with appropriate equipment, utilizing proper technique to minimize discomfort and potential injury to the lungs. They also maintain strict sterile technique during each suctioning session to reduce the risk of infection.

Airway Management Techniques

Airway management techniques involve maintaining a patent airway and ensuring adequate oxygenation. These skills are critical for any nurse working in intensive care units or emergency departments. Some common airway management techniques include bag-valve mask ventilation, advanced airway placement (e.g., endotracheal tubes), and the use of high-flow nasal canulas. Knowledge of these methods enables nurses to respond effectively during emergencies related to airway compromise.

Endotracheal Tube Management

Endotracheal tubes (ETT) are used to maintain an open airway and deliver mechanical ventilation when needed. However, improper ETT positioning or lack of adequate humidification can lead to complications such as vocal cord damage or nosocomial pneumonia. Therefore, nurses need to confirm correct ETT placement, monitor ETT depth and cuff pressure, and maintain appropriate humidity levels to mitigate risks associated with extended ETT usage.

In conclusion, nursing airway management encompasses various tasks ranging from simple observations like pulse oximetry checks to complex procedures like tracheostomy care and advanced airway placements. By mastering these skills and staying updated on best practices, nurses can significantly improve patient outcomes and safety.