Question

A baby's heart rate does not increase after intubation and the breath sounds are louder on the right side than on the left side of the chest. Which of the following is a common cause of asymmetric breath sounds in an intubated baby?

a. Oral mass
b. Neck mass
c. Endotracheal tube inserted into the right mainstem bronchus
d. Robin sequence

Answer 1

Asymmetric breath sounds in an intubated baby are commonly caused by the endotracheal tube being inserted into the right mainstem bronchus, leading to inadequate ventilation of the left lung.

Step-by-step explanation:

A common cause of asymmetric breath sounds in an intubated baby, where the breath sounds are louder on the right side than on the left, is often due to the endotracheal tube being inserted into the right mainstem bronchus. This scenario can lead to an inadequate ventilation of the left lung, and hence, diminished breath sounds on that side. Ideally, the endotracheal tube should be positioned such that it allows for even distribution of air into both lungs. When a baby's heart rate does not increase following intubation, it could be an indicator of improper ventilation or oxygenation, which should prompt immediate reassessment of the tube's position, typically confirmed by chest x-ray.