A 6 year old patient, who was admitted for a dog bite on the face, unexpectedly developed anaphylaxis to a test dose of Augmentin. He developed stridor which needs immediate intubation. You are the only available doctor at the time. You have a No.3 curved blade laryngoscope ready and you have asked for an Endotracheal Tube (ET) to the nurse. What should be the appropriate internal diameter of the tube?: (A) 3.5mm, (B) 4.5mm, (C) 5.5mm, (D) 6.5mm
Answer is C. Internal diameter of an ET tube in children = (age in years/4) + 4.0 mm = (6/4) +4.0 mm = 5.5 mm 3-3.5 is the internal diameter for a neonate For an adult male - 8.5 mm For an adult female - 7.5 mm Ref: Oxford Handbook of Clinical Specialities, Page 627