Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

What is an important factor to monitor during intubation procedures in children?

1. Blood pressure

2. Temperature

3. Heart rate

4. Oxygen saturation

The correct answer is: Oxygen saturation

Monitoring oxygen saturation during intubation procedures in children is crucial because it provides real-time information about the patient's respiratory status and the effectiveness of ventilation. Intubation can lead to transient hypoxia, especially in pediatric patients where airway management can be more challenging due to smaller airway structures. Ensuring adequate oxygenation before, during, and after the intubation helps prevent hypoxic injury to vital organs. Using pulse oximetry to track oxygen saturation levels allows healthcare providers to take immediate action if there are any drops in saturation, ensuring that the child remains stable during the procedure. This constant monitoring is especially important due to the unique anatomy and physiology of pediatric patients, making them more susceptible to complications during intubation.