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Biomedical subjects

T H Howells

Publications and source records attributed to T H Howells.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1989

Transilluminated tracheal intubation.

We evaluated the use of an inexpensive trans-illuminating light wand for tracheal intubation. Expertise in its use was acquired quickly, thereby providing successful per-oral intubation in all patients who were able to open the mouth, irrespective of the view obtained of the epiglottis and larynx.

Epiglottis↗
PubMed1987

Airway resuscitation packs for nurses: a recommendation for their withdrawal.

Approximately one third of our hospitals appear to issue airway resuscitation packs (ARPs) to nurses responsible for the care of postanaesthetic and comatose patients. These packs contain instruments intended for use in overcoming airway obstruction. One hundred and eight nurses replied to a questionnaire designed to identify their knowledge of the instruments. The results indicate that nurses entrusted with ARPs were almost totally unfamiliar with the instruments and their application. The authors recommend the universal withdrawal of ARPs and suggest that nurses and doctors are taught to recognise airway obstruction and to manage it with simple manoeuvres not involving instrumentation.

Airway Obstruction↗
PubMed1983

The application of cricoid pressure. An assessment and a survey of its practice.

A simple test rig was developed to assess the force applied during the application of cricoid pressure. Anaesthetists and paramedical personnel familiar with Sellick's manoeuvre were tested yielding results which indicate an unacceptably wide variation in performance in each group. The mean force was 46.4 N but 47% failed to reach a force of 44 N. In addition a survey was undertaken of trained anaesthetic staff to identify the current status of the manoeuvre. Of those sampled 78% routinely employed Sellick's manoeuvre and over 70% had experienced a problem with its application which exposed the patient to the risk of regurgitation.

Adult↗
PubMed1983

The determination of an effective cricoid pressure.

A study of cricoid pressure was undertaken to relate the applied cricoid force with the resulting intraluminal cricopharyngeal (or oesophageal) pressure. The results indicate that whilst there was a wide range in normal adults a cricoid force of 44 N was judged to be effective in protecting the majority of adult patients from regurgitation.

Abdomen↗
PubMed1980

Signs of endotracheal intubation.

A case of oesophageal intubation is described in which simulated lung ventilation occurred to a convincing degree. The signs relevant to correct endotracheal placement are discussed and explanations for the observed events are offered.

Aged↗