What is the purpose of a cuff on an artificial tracheal airway?
A) To seal off and protect the lower airway
B) To stabilize the tube and prevent its movement
C) To provide a means to determine tube position via radiograph
D) To help clinicians determine the depth of tube insertion

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The purpose of a cuff on an artificial tracheal airway is to seal off and protect the lower airway by preventing leakage of air or fluid around the tube. This is particularly important in mechanically ventilated patients to prevent aspiration of secretions or gastric contents into the lungs.

Answer: B
 While stabilizing the tube and preventing movement is important in preventing accidental dislodgement, this is not the primary purpose of the cuff on an artificial tracheal airway.

Answer: C
 While some types of artificial tracheal airways may have radiopaque markers to help determine tube position, the cuff is not typically used for this purpose.

Answer: D
 While the cuff may provide some information about the depth of tube insertion, this is not its primary purpose. The depth of insertion is typically determined by measuring the distance from the patient's teeth or lips.

What Is the Purpose of a Cuff on an Artificial