Endotracheal Tube (ETT) Depth and Tidal Volume Calculator
Estimates depth of optimal ETT placement and target tidal volume by height.
Use in patients over 20 years old and at least 60 inches (5 feet) tall.
Advice
- ETT position should still be verified with a chest radiograph among patients who will remain intubated for an extended period of time.
- Tidal volume: (6-8 mL/kg)*ideal body weight (IBW) is generally a safe initial setting, but further ventilator adjustment may be required depending on the adequacy of ventilation and airway pressures.
Management
Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation.
Critical Actions
Chest radiograph and measurement of CO₂ level (e.g. end-tidal CO₂ or blood gas analysis) to confirm ETT position and adequacy of ventilation.