Effect of body change positions on endotracheal tube cuff pressure in patients with head injury treated with mechanical ventilation

Background: Maintaining endotracheal tube cuff pressure in the normal range of 25-30 cmH2o plays an important role in the prevention of related complications. Objective: The present study aimed to determine the effect of body change position on level of endotracheal tube cuff pressure in patients with head trauma under mechanical ventilation admitted in ICUs. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was implemented on 30 patients with head injury under mechanical ventilation who admitted in ICUs in 2014. Available method was used for sampling.  The mean of endotracheal cuff pressure was measured in 6 different body positions in the two-hour intervals using standard manometer, immediately before, immediately after, 15 minutes and 2 hours after the change positions. Data was analyzed using Chi-square, t and Bonferroni tests. Findings: The mean of endotracheal cuff pressure in the left and right lateral position with an angle of 30 degrees and head to the body (Respectively 31.5±0.68 and 34.1±0.68 cmH2o) and also the left and right lateral and a 45-degree angle to the body at the end of the period of 15 minutes and 2 hours after change positions was higher than the normal range (Respectively 31.9±0.92 and 30.4±1.5 cmH2o). In all cases, the mean of pressure differences were statistically significant           (p<0.001) Conclusion: According to the unnatural changes in endotracheal tube cuff pressure due to body change positions, it is suggested that after changing position of the patient, measure the cuff pressure and correct it if it’s necessary.