Check
- Tube depth at teeth/lips versus prior documented depth.
- Continuous waveform EtCO₂ and bilateral chest rise/breath sounds.
- Cuff position, partial extubation, mainstem, or obstruction.
Vent control
Tube position / partial extubation branch
Low volume and worsening waveform can mean the tube moved.
Clinical review / use limits
Authored by: Airway of the Month education team. Last reviewed: July 2026. Audience: EM learners, faculty, EMS, RT, simulation educators, and airway teams.
This is an educational cognitive-aid scaffold, not a bedside order set. Verify medications, ventilator changes, pediatric dosing, and procedures against local ED, ICU, anesthesia, pharmacy, RT, EMS, and pediatric policies.
Resources · Editorial policy · ACEP intubation policy · ARDS ventilation reference