The use of endotracheal tubes in small animal anaesthesia: part 1

This cross-sectional study aimed to identify how registered veterinary nurses in the UK use endotracheal tubes in small animal anaesthesia. A 24-question online survey was distributed to UK registered veterinary nurses via social media, with ethical approval from the University of Bristol and informed consent obtained. Poly-vinyl chloride endotracheal tubes were the most commonly used, despite poor adherence to single-use manufacturer guidelines. Guidance for red rubber and silicone tubes was frequently misunderstood, and cuffed and red rubber tubes were used less often in feline patients. Cleaning and reprocessing methods varied widely, with no evidence-based protocol identified for reusing single-use tubes. The minimum occlusive volume technique was the most common cuff inflation method, while only one-third of respondents routinely measured and shortened endotracheal tubes based on patient requirements. Registered veterinary nurses reported frustration with cost-driven practice policies that limited equipment availability, encouraged re-use of single-use tubes, restricted tube modification and constrained the use of cuffed endotracheal tubes in cats, reducing autonomy and care quality.