What is the purpose of a tracheostomy tube obturator? a. To ...

[eruditmonkey@yahoo.com]

What is the purpose of a tracheostomy tube obturator?
 
  a. To minimize trauma to the tracheal muco-sal during insertion
  b. To provide a patent airway should the tube become obstructed
  c. To help ascertain the proper tube position by radiograph
  d. To provide a means to inflate and deflate the tube cuff

Question 2

While checking a crash cart for intubation equipment, you find the following: suction equipment, oxygen apparatus, two laryngoscopes and assorted blades, five tubes, Magill forceps, tape, lubri-cating gel, and local anesthetic. What is missing?
 
  1. Obturator
  2. Syringe(s)
  3. Resuscitator bag and mask
  4. Tube stylet
  a. 1, 2, and 3 only
  b. 2 and 4 only
  c. 2, 3, and 4 only
  d. 1, 2, 3, and 4

[joneynes]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
An obturator with a rounded tip is used for tube insertion. Prior to insertion, the obturator is placed within the outer cannula, with its tip extending just beyond the far end of the tube. This minimizes mucosal trauma during insertion.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C

[eruditmonkey@yahoo.com]

Excellent

[scottmt]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it