What should be done to prevent a high-risk patient from aspiration of gastric contents?
A) Proper maintenance of cuff pressures
B) Use of humidification of secretions with a heated humidifier
C) Elevation of the patient's head 30-45 degrees
D) The use of subglottic secretion drainage

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elevation of the head of the bed to 30 - 45 degrees reduces the risk of silent aspiration.Evidence supports a reduction in gastric content aspiration in patients in the semi-recumbent position.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state "In the absence of medical contraindication(s),elevate at an angle of 30--45 degrees of the head of the bed of a patient at high risk for aspiration.

What Should Be Done to Prevent a High-Risk Patient from Aspiration