Friday February 22, 2008
5-point auscultation post intubation

As soon as intubation is performed, it is a good habit to listen for breath sounds, though not reliable but still provide extra confirmation of proper placement particularly when end-tidal carbon dioxide device is not available.

One recommended method is 5-point auscultation post intubation. Listen over

• right lateral lung field,
• left lateral lung field,
• the left axilla,
• the right axilla,
• Over stomach to make sure no air movement should occur over the stomach.

Reference:

Tracheal intubation - Anaesthesia & Intensive Care Medicine, Volume 8, Issue 9, Pages 347-351