Complications of Endotracheal Intubation in the Intensive Care Unit: A Single-center Experience after Training

Objective: Endotracheal intubation is a frequently performed procedure in the intensive care unit (ICU). Extremely serious complications occur during this procedure. In this study, theoretical and practical training were given to residents who started to work in the medical intensive care unit, and it was aimed to evaluate the complications following training. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted prospectively. Results: A total of 36 patients were included in the study; 16 (45%) were male, and the average age of the patients was 64±16.0 years. The most common indications for admittance to the ICU were shock (50%) and acute respiratory failure (36%). The most common indication for intubation was determined as acute respiratory failure (44%). The intubation was performed as an emergency procedure in 27% of these patients, whereas it was performed semi-urgently in 8% and electively in 65%. Among intubated patients, at least one complication developed in 13 (36%) cases. The drugs most commonly used for sedation were midazolam (76%) and propofol (16.7%). Conclusion: Complications of endotracheal intubation are significant problems in ICUs. A successful procedure of intubation avoids complications. Regular training for endotracheal intubation in the ICU decreases the complications.