Accidental breathing circuit disconnections in the neonatal or pediatric critical care setting

Accidental disconnection from ventilatory support can result in injury and death. Nursing interventions can effectively reduce the risks associated with disconnections. These include making connections with a push and twist action, exercising caution during intentional disconnections, maintaining tight connections, requesting appropriate equipment, using anti-disconnection devices, understanding and properly using monitoring equipment, and avoiding complacency.