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General

intubation

What does intubation mean?

The placement of an endotracheal tube through the mouth or nose into the windpipe to keep the airway open and allow mechanical ventilation.

"His oxygen keeps dropping; we're going to need intubation."

Origin

From Latin 'in-' (into) plus 'tuba' (tube).

Frequently asked questions

What does intubation mean?
It means placing a tube through the mouth or nose into the windpipe to keep the airway open and allow a machine or bag to breathe for the patient.
Why is intubation done?
It secures the airway and enables mechanical ventilation when a patient cannot breathe or protect their airway adequately, such as during respiratory failure, surgery, or a low oxygen level.
Where does the word come from?
It comes from the Latin 'in-' meaning into and 'tuba' meaning tube.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.