Final answer:
During intubation, the medical team must record key information such as patient identity, procedure details, surgical site, consent, and the function of monitoring equipment. Endotracheal intubation is performed to maintain an open airway and after the surgery, patients are gradually brought out of anesthesia. A checklist is vital for ensuring no steps are missed and for team communication.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient is intubated, it is crucial that certain information is accurately documented to ensure the safe recovery and care of the patient. Members of the medical team, including the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional, play significant roles in this process. Before the induction of anesthesia, verification of the patient's identity, the surgical site and procedure, consent, and the function of the pulse oximeter is essential. Additionally, team members must be aware of any known allergies the patient has. The nurse is responsible for reviewing and confirming aloud the name of the procedure, the completeness of needle, sponge, and instrument counts, the correct labeling of specimens, and addressing any equipment issues. During general anesthesia, it is possible for the tongue and respiratory muscles to relax to a point where airway blockage or inadequate respiratory movement occurs. Endotracheal intubation protects the patient by maintaining an open airway to the lungs and sealing it off from the oropharynx. After the surgery, the anesthesiologist will adjust the gas mixture to slowly wake the patient up, which can take around 30 minutes for the respiratory muscles to regain control. It's common for patients to experience a sore or scratchy throat post-intubation.
A checklist approach, similar to that used by airplane pilots, is beneficial for medical professionals to ensure that all critical steps are followed during the procedure. This includes a 'time-out' before skin incision where the team reviews patient identity, surgical site, procedure, and critical events to anticipate, as well as confirmation of sterility and equipment availability.