Calculate endotracheal tube insertion depth using age or weight
Formula: Depth (cm) = 12 + (Age รท 2)
| Age | Depth (cm) |
|---|---|
| Newborn | 12 |
| 6 months | 12.25 |
| 1 year | 12.5 |
| 2 years | 13 |
| 4 years | 14 |
| 6 years | 15 |
| 8 years | 16 |
| 10 years | 17 |
| 12 years | 18 |
| Weight | Depth (cm) |
|---|---|
| 1 kg | 7 |
| 2 kg | 8 |
| 3 kg | 9 |
| 4 kg | 10 |
Verification Required: Always confirm ET tube placement with auscultation, chest rise, capnography, and chest X-ray
Tube Position: Ideal position is 2-3 cm above the carina (T2-T4 vertebral level)
Adjustments: May need adjustment based on patient anatomy, neck position, and clinical assessment
Nasal Intubation: Add 2-3 cm to calculated depth for nasotracheal intubation
Limitations: Formulas provide estimates only. Individual patient factors may require depth adjustments