Evaluation of two methods used to stabilize oral endotracheal tubes

This study examined the effects of using an oral endotracheal tube holder versus conventional taping for stabilization of oral endotracheal tubes. Twenty-five patients were studied for 4 days, while 5 remained in the study 3 days. Each of the 30 patients had each of the two methods of stabilization in place for at least 1 day. The oral endotracheal tube holder significantly (p less than 0.0001) decreased both internal and external movement of the tube. Although self-extubation did occur in two instances, it was evaluated as less likely to occur when the tube holder was used to secure the endotracheal tube. Skin breakdown was also observed less frequently with the tube holder. Overall, nursing staff had a higher level of acceptance of the tube holder as the method of choice for stabilization of an oral endotracheal tube. Patient perceptions of the system were not evaluated because of the degree of illness of the patients.