TAPING METHODS AND TAPE TYPES FOR SECURING ORAL ENDOTRACHEAL-TUBES

Purpose: To evaluate tapes and taping methods with respect to the mini mum force required to dislodge endotracheal tubes (ETTs). Methods: A s imulated face model consisting of a section of PVC pipe was used. The ETT was attached to a piezo-electric force transducer and pullout forc e was manually applied in a vertical, right or left direction, Five ta pe types were tested: Curity, Leukosilk, Hy.tape, Leukopore, and Trans pore. Seven taping methods were used to secure the ETT: The methods di ffered with respect to tape width and whether the tape was split along its longitudinal axis. Each taping condition was replicated 20 times (7 methods x 5 tapes x 3 directions) for a total of 2100 pullout tests . Results: Minimum forces to dislodge ETTs were higher (P<0.05) with C urity tape (mean +/- SD: 135 +/- 75 N) than with the other tapes (Leuk osilk: 93 +/- 51 N, Hy.tape: 78 +/- 34 N, Leukopore: 47 +/- 32, and Tr anspore: 37 +/- 23 N). The most secure taping method was achieved by t aping the E-TT; using 2.5 cm wide Curity tape, in a circumferential fa shion to both the upper and lower borders of the simulated mouth openi ng, and reinforcing these tapes with two strips applied longitudinally across the borders of the mouth opening (method 7). Taping methods wh ich involved splitting the tape along its longitudinal axis resulted i n lower minimal pullout forces whenever the pullout force was directed towards the side of attachment (P<0.05 vs right and vertical directio n). Conclusion: There are differences in Err pullout forces and mechan isms of dislodgement depending on taping method and tape type.