Nurses’ Knowledge and Management of Endotracheal/Tracheostomy Tube Cuff Pressure in Intensive Care Units During COVID-19 Pandemic

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practices of nurses working in intensive care units (ICUs) regarding endotracheal/tracheostomy tube cuff pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 90 nurses from ICUs where these procedures were performed participated in the study. Data were collected using a Participant Information Form and the Endotracheal/Tracheostomy Tube Cuff Pressure Knowledge and Practice Form. Nurses identified the primary function of the cuff as tube fixation (88.90%), the main complication as lung aspiration (73.30%), and the safe cuff pressure range as 20–30 cmH2O (56.70%). Most nurses inflated the cuff with 5–10 ml of air (57.80%) and measured the pressure at least twice daily (58.90%), using palpation method (78.90%). Nurses had theoretical knowledge regarding cuff function, complications, pressure amount, and measurement frequency; however, they need training about the practical aspects of cuff pressure management, such as the air volume injected into the cuff, measurement position, and technique.