Research Symposium Program - Individual Details

Sustaining Best Practice: Revisiting Endotracheal Tube Cuff Pressure Assessment Methods in Anesthesia Providers

Abstract

Endotracheal tube cuff pressure plays a critical role in preventing complications such as aspiration, mucosal injury, and post-operative sore throat in patients undergoing anesthesia. Maintaining an optimal cuff pressure of 20-30 cmH2O is essential to avoid adverse outcomes; however, common inflation techniques often lead to inaccurate pressure levels. This project aims to assess the impact of anesthesia provider education and the use of manometers on endotracheal tube cuff pressure management at a trauma center in the Florida Panhandle. The study compares cuff pressures before and after the distribution of manometers and educational interventions aimed at improving cuff pressure monitoring. Previous data collected at the site indicated an average cuff pressure of 54 cmH2O with 89.7% of endotracheal tube cuff pressures falling outside the recommended range. A convenience data collection method was employed to assess cuff pressures in adult surgical patients, documenting variables such as provider experience and endotracheal tube size. Results were analyzed against prior data to evaluate the effectiveness of these practice changes in achieving optimal cuff pressures. New data determined an average cuff pressure of 70 cmH2O with 87% of endotracheal tube cuff pressures falling outside of the recommended range. The findings highlight the importance of education, manometer use, and documentation in improving patient outcomes, with implications for sustained quality improvement in anesthesia practice.

Keywords: Manometer, Endotracheal Tube, Cuff Pressure