What Does Intubated Mean?
Introduction
Intubation is the act of inserting a tube into a person’s airway as a means of providing supplemental oxygen, while simultaneously protecting the person’s airway from saliva, vomit, mucous, and other substances that could block the airway. The tube is typically a flexible plastic tube known as an endotracheal tube or ET tube, and it is inserted through the person’s mouth or nose and down into their trachea. Intubation is a commonly used medical procedure, particularly in critical care settings, and it can offer life-saving support for people suffering from a wide range of medical conditions.
What is Intubation?
Intubation is the process of insertion of a hollow plastic tube called an endotracheal tube (ET) into the trachea (windpipe) to maintain an open airway or to serve as a conduit through which to administer certain medications or to provide mechanical ventilation. During intubation, the ET is passed through the mouth and down the throat, past the vocal cords and into the trachea. Intubation is a common practice in intensive care units and emergency departments and is typically performed by a physician, surgeon, anesthesiologist, or a specially trained emergency medical technician (EMT).
Who Might Need Intubation?
Intubation is most often used when a person is unable to maintain their own airway due to a medical condition, although it may also be used in emergency settings to provide life-saving support. For example, intubation may be needed in cases of airway obstruction, such as a blocked airway, severe asthma or anaphylaxis, or when a person is undergoing a major surgery in which their airway must be protected from their own secretions. Intubation may also be used to provide mechanical ventilation in cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome, or for the delivery of medication and essential nutrients.
Conclusion
Intubation is an important medical procedure that can be used to provide oxygen and protection of the airway, or as a conduit for administering medications or supporting mechanical ventilation in cases of medical emergencies or critical care. Intubation is typically performed by a medical professional such as a physician, anesthesiologist, surgeon, or specially trained EMT. Regardless of why intubation is being performed, the procedure can provide life-saving support for people suffering from a wide range of conditions.