Experiences of Tracheal Intubations by Anesthesiologists in Patient with COVID-19
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Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019; COVID-19 is a
new pandemic disease that may cause respiratory failure.
Endotracheal tube intubation is a crucial procedure for
treatment patients, including patients who need general
anesthesia.
Objective: We collected data about endotracheal tube
intubation in COVID-19 patients who were critically ill or
underwent general anesthesia by anesthesiologists. We
summarized the guidance and problems to improve the
practical guidelines in the future.
Method:A retrospective study of all COVID-19 patients who
were endotracheal tube intubated by anesthesiologists
from 23 March to 19 April 2020 at faculty of Medicine,
Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University.
Result: The total of 8 COVID-19 patients needed
intubation during the study period. Seven patients were
intubated due to acute respiratory failure and 1 patient was
intubated for general anesthesia. Out of 8 patients,
7 patients (87.5%) were male and 1 patient (12.5%) was
female. After intubation, some patients significantly
showed hypotension (25%) and desaturation (50%). The
problems found in our practice were communication,
intravenous drug injection and fit test of personal protective
equipment.
Conclusion: Endotracheal tube intubation in COVID-19
patients is a highly contagious procedure. Hence, cooperation
in all departments, planning, and practicing are keys to
increase rate of success and medical personnel safety
Article Details
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