Table 1 Nursing guidelines for respiratory support following head injury
• Ensure pO2 is above 10 kPa and SaO2 > 95%
• Ensure pCO2 is lower side of normal around 4·5 kPa
• If possible, monitor end tidal CO2 levels
• Maintain pH between 7·35 and 7·45
• Ideally positive end expiratory pressure at 5 cm H2O
• Only perform endotracheal suctioning if clinically indicated
• Bolus of sedation prior to suctioning
• Prior to suctioning, preoxygenate for 1 min with 100% FiO2
• Minimize suctioning duration