What is the advantage of using a silver-plated or a silver-coated endotracheal tube?

A. Such a tube shows up better on an A-P portable chest x-ray.
B. Silver has strong bacteriostatic properties.
C. They provide an easier method for endotracheal suctioning.
D. Silver tube cuffs require less inflation pressure than do conventional ET tubes.

?ANS: B
A. Incorrect response: The fact that a silver endotracheal tube shows up better on an AP chest x-rays does not account for their modern-day use.
B. Correct response: Silver is known for its bacteriostatic properties. Silver also prevents the accumulation of biofilm along the inside lumen and reduces the bacterial burden. Use of a silver-coated tube may help prevent nosocomial pneumonia.
C. Incorrect response: No known difference exists between polyvinyl chloride tubes and silver tubes as far as endotracheal suctioning is concerned.
D. Incorrect response: The two types of endotracheal tubes generally use the same inflation pressure to secure the airway and to prohibit self-extubation.