Endotracheal Tube Size Neonates - Medical Algorithm

Description

The appropriate size of the endotracheal tube to use in an emergency is important to ensure optimal oxygenation and to minimize trauma during insertion. The proper size in newborn infants can often be determined from gestational age and/or birth weight.

Type of endotracheal tube: uncuffed

Internal Diameter Based on Gestational Age

internal diameter of endotracheal tube in mm for newborn based on gestational age =

= ROUND (((gestational age in weeks)) / 10) DOWN to nearest 0.5 mm

Gestational Age	ETT size (ID in mm)
24 weeks	2.0
28 weeks	2.5
32 weeks	3.0
36 weeks	3.5
40 weeks	4.0

Internal Diameter Based on Birth Weight

internal diameter of endotracheal tube in mm for newborn infants based on birth weight

birth weight in grams	internal diameter in mm	distance from lips to endotracheal tube tip in cm
< 1000 g	2.5	7
1000 - 2000 g	3.0	8
2000 - 4000 g	3.5	9
> 4000 g	4.0	10

Length of Insertion (Shukla et al)

nasal-tragus length in cm =

= distance between the base of the nasal septum and the tip of the tragus (the cartilaginous projection immediately anterior to the external auditory meatus)

sternal length in cm =

= distance between the suprasternal notch to the xiphoid process

Intubation Route	Insertion Length in Centimeters
orotracheal	(nasal-to-tragus length in cm) + 1
orotracheal	(sternal length in cm) + 1
orotracheal	(birth weight in kilograms) + 6
nasotracheal	(nasal-to-tragus length in cm) + 2
nasotracheal	(sternal length in cm) + 2
nasotracheal	(birth weight in kilograms) + 7

Suction Catheter Size

Internal diameter of endotracheal tube in mm	Suction catheter tube size required
2.5	5 French
3.0	5 French
3.5	6 French
4.0	8 French
4.5	8 French

To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.

Description

Specialty

Objective

ICD-10

Endotracheal Tube Size in Neonates

Purpose: To determine the endotracheal tube size needed for a newborn infant.

Description

Specialty

Objective

ICD-10