Basic endotracheal tube, single-use

Intended purpose

An endotracheal tube is a specific type of tracheal tube that is nearly always inserted through the mouth (orotracheal) or nose (nasotracheal), for the primary purpose of establishing and maintaining a patent airway and to ensure the adequate exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Tracheal tubes can also be used to deliver oxygen in higher concentrations than found in air, or to administer other gases such as helium, nitrous oxide, or certain volatile anaesthetic agents. Tracheal tubes may also be used as a route for administration of certain medications such as salbutamol, atropine, epinephrine, and lidocaine. Tracheal tubes are commonly used for airway management in the settings of general anaesthesia, critical care, mechanical ventilation, and emergency medicine.