Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2025
The Rigid Tube as an Alternative in Controlling the Problematic Airway
Published on: June 6, 2020
Resident-Driven Guideline to Reduce Iatrogenic Pneumothoraxes From Small-Bore Feeding Tubes: A Quality and Safety
Sourav Podder1, Scott Cowan1, Scott Koeneman1
1Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA.
Abstract:
Small-bore feeding tubes (SBFT) in vulnerable patients carry a risk of iatrogenic pneumothorax by misplacement into the lung. This institution noted a series of iatrogenic pneumothoraxes caused by the placement of these devices. A resident-led, multidisciplinary team developed a hospital guideline through a consensus-driven process. The guideline mandated SBFT placement by approved "super-users" via the CORTRAK Enteral Access System or via non-CORTRAK Methods, including the 2-step X-ray Method, fluoroscopy, or direct visualization techniques. A "super-user" Program for the CORTRAK Enteral Access System was developed to assure competency and consistency. With the development of the guideline and "super-user" program, the authors observed a decrease in the number of SBFT-related iatrogenic pneumothoraxes. Following a brief period of adoption, the three-hospital organization has had no SBFT-related iatrogenic pneumothoraxes. This project demonstrates the effectiveness of developing a resident-driven, evidence-based hospital guideline for the safe passage of SBFTs.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Enteral Nutrition I: Orogastric and Nasogastric Feeding
Orogastric (OG) and nasogastric (NG) feeding are two standard methods used for enteral nutrition. Enteral nutrition is often preferred over...
01:15Endotracheal Intubation I: Procedure
The ET tube comprises various components, including a standard adaptor to attach a bag-valve-mask (BVM) or ventilator, a cuff, a pilot balloon, and radiopaque markings along its length to measure the insertion distance. The tube sizes...
01:16Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
01:17Endotracheal Intubation II: Nursing Management
1. Nursing Care of Patients Before Intubation
Before the endotracheal intubation procedure, nurses play an essential role in ensuring the process goes smoothly. The nurses must be familiar with intubation...
01:23Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
01:30Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....