Critical Care Nurses’ Practice of Endotracheal Tube Suctioning in Intensive Care Units: an Observational Study

Abstract

1.ABSTRACT Background: Endotracheal tube (ETT) suctioning is one of the most frequent airway procedures in mechanically ventilated patients. Critical care nurses' (CCNs) practice regarding ETT suctioning play a vital role to maintain airway clearance and prevent infection, particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Aim: This study aimed to assess CCNs' practice of ETT suctioning in intensive care units (ICUs) at Emergency Hospital, Mansoura University. Method: A descriptive observational research design was used to conduct this study with a convenience sample of 50 CCNs working in three ICUs affiliated with Emergency Hospital Mansoura University in Egypt. One tool was used for data collection of this study. The tool was "Nurses' Practice of Endo-Tracheal Tube Suctioning Observation Checklist" in addition to nurses' socio-demographic characteristics. Results: The results revealed statistically significant differences were found between the total and sub-total score of nurses' practice. The results showed that the total practice score of the participant nurses was unsatisfactory (100%) with a mean ± SD of 55.49 ± 6.51. Conclusion: The current study concluded that CCNs' practice regarding ETT suctioning was unsatisfactory. These findings may have a negative effect on patients' outcomes. Recommendations: The CCNs need a training program application to improve their practice regarding ETT suctioning to improve health for large numbers of critically ill patients, prevent complications and significantly saving costs.