EFFECTS OF MODE OF VENTILATION ON ENDOTRACHEAL CUFF PRESSURE IN MECHANICALLY VENTILATED PATIENTS IN CRITICAL CARE UNIT

Abstract

Mechanical ventilation is the key management in critical care often dealing with hypoxia, hypercarbia and airway protection in deranged consciousness levels. Further patients who undergo prolonged surgery and unstable hemodynamics also need postoperative ventilation. Endotracheal cuff when inflated offer adequate seal to maintain tube position and prevent gastric aspiration. Excessive cuff pressure can cause tracheal wall ischemia necessitating frequent monitoring.