Obstructed tube alarm

This is the alarm that often appears most useful, diagnosing the problem for you. However, in most cases, the ETT is not obstructed.

If there is inspiratory and expiratory flow noted on the respiratory graphics monitor screen prior to the message appearing, then the ETT is most likely not blocked (see the images below). The most common reason is that the baby is not ventilating because he is "splinting" - that is, actively expiring against a ventilator inspiration.

In this instance, there are few strategies which are effective in reducing the error message (short of muscle relaxing the baby, which is not a particularly good long-term solution).

The pressure wave will continue to look "normal" even if there is no flow. Therefore, it is of little use for interpretation of an obstructed tube	Click on the image to enlarge
In a situation of obstruction, the flow will cease. In infants that are "splinting" this is often a gradual reduction, followed by a gradual increase once some ventilation is effective.	Click on the image to enlarge
As for flow, the volume will progressively decrease in a similar fashion to the flow.	Click on the image to enlarge

Tube Obstructed Alarm

Other Ventilation Links