Endotracheal intubation is a medical procedure where a flexible plastic tube is situated in a patient’s airway to help them breathe. It is a vital, life-saving procedure for patients who need assistance breathing. However, while they are important, the insertion and maintenance of breathing tubes come with certain risks that can lead to serious injuries. If your loved one suffered an injury at a nursing home related to a breathing tube, it may be worth contacting an attorney to pursue legal action.
Dislodged or Clogged Breathing Tubes
One of the most prevalent concerns with breathing tubes is the risk of dislodgement or clogging. A dislodged tube can obstruct airflow, causing inadequate oxygen supply to the patient. This can lead to hypoxia, brain damage, or even death if not promptly addressed. On the other hand, a clogged tube can result from mucus buildup or a foreign object entering the tube, resulting in airflow being hindered.
Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to prevent these kinds of issues. Healthcare professionals must ensure correct placement and occasionally suction the tubes to remove blockages. In emergency situations, quick recognition and response to signs of dislodgement or clogging are absolutely critical.
Damage to Lungs and Vocal Cords
The process of inserting, maintaining, and removing a breathing tube can also cause damage to both the lungs and vocal cords. The friction from the tube can lead to inflammation and damage to lung tissues.
Similarly, the vocal cords are not immune to harm. Long-term breathing tube intubation can cause swelling or ulcers in the larynx, leading to temporary or permanent vocal cord damage. Patients may experience hoarseness, trouble speaking, or even loss of voice as a result.
Proper technique during intubation, careful tube management, and timely extubating (taking the tube out) are important strategies to minimize these risks. Using the correct size and type of tube for each patient can also reduce the chance of injury.
Infections Caused by Breathing Tube Injuries
Infections constitute another significant risk associated with breathing tubes. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common and severe infection that occurs in patients who have been intubated for a long time. Pathogens can enter the respiratory tract via the tube, leading to serious respiratory infections.
To lessen the risk of infection, strict hygiene practices are essential. Healthcare workers must follow techniques when inserting and handling the tube to ensure an infection does not occur. Furthermore, regular oral care for the intubated patient and proper hand hygiene are essential as well.
Contact Our Peoria, IL Breathing Tube Injury Lawyer
While breathing tubes are important tools in modern medicine, they come with their fair share of risks that can lead to injuries. If your loved one is suffering from injuries related to a breathing tube, contact the respected Peoria County, IL breathing tube injury attorneys with Nursing Home Injury Center. Call 309-524-6900 for a free consultation.
