Final answer:
Endotracheal tubes are medical devices inserted through the mouth or nose to maintain an open airway, facilitate breathing or drug administration, especially during medical procedures or emergencies that involve the respiratory system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Endotracheal tubes are medical devices inserted by healthcare professionals, typically in a hospital setting or by ambulance crews in emergency situations. These tubes are inserted through the patient's mouth or nose and then through the pharynx and larynx until they reach the trachea. The function of an endotracheal tube is to maintain an open airway to the lungs, facilitate ventilation and oxygenation of blood, and enable the removal of secretions. In situations such as general anesthesia or when a patient's respiratory system is compromised, such as by a foreign object or injury, endotracheal intubation is crucial. The tube can also be a route to administer drugs or provide mechanical ventilation. The process of intubation involves placing the tube into the trachea to bypass any obstruction in the upper airway, ensuring that oxygen can reach the lungs and that exhaled air and carbon dioxide can be expelled from the body. This procedure is essential in critical care and during surgeries to maintain proper respiratory function.