Mechanical Ventilation and Intubation: Airway Management in Critical Care

In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of mechanical ventilation and endotracheal intubation, focusing on the clinical decision-making and nursing responsibilities involved in advanced airway management. We’ll review essential artificial airway equipment, including endotracheal tubes and laryngoscopes, and walk through the steps of rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in emergency situations. You’ll learn how to distinguish between invasive ventilation modes, such as Assist/Control, and non-invasive options, including CPAP and BiPAP. Critical nursing priorities are emphasized, from verifying tube placement with chest X-ray confirmation to maintaining airway patency and performing routine oral care to prevent ventilator-associated complications. We’ll also address potential risks—such as ventilator-induced lung injury, infection, gastric complications, and muscle deconditioning—highlighting strategies for early recognition and prevention. This episode equips nurses with the knowledge and confidence to safely manage patients requiring ventilatory support in high-acuity settings.