Your intubated, unconscious patient has accidentally had the cuff deflated. This has resulted in the aspiration of oral secretions. What microorganisms are likely to be found in her tracheal secretions now?
1) Legionella pneumophila
2) Pseudomonas aeruginosa
3) Peptococci
4) Bacteroides fragilis
A)1, 3
B)3, 4
C)1, 2
D)1, 2, 4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Peptococci and Bacteroides fragilis are anaerobic bacteria commonly found in the mouth and upper respiratory tract. Aspiration of oral secretions increases the chance of these microorganisms being present in the tracheal secretions. Legionella pneumophila is not commonly found in oral secretions and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that is commonly found in hospital environments but not necessarily in the mouth. Therefore, options A and C are not the best choices.

Your Intubated, Unconscious Patient Has Accidentally Had the Cuff Deflated