PEDIATRIC TUBE SIZES

CALCULATE ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE (ETT) SIZE

[Age ÷ 4] + 4

There are many formulas to calculate the endotracheal tube size for kids. The given formula is one of the most common. Let’s think a six yo patient. Your ETT size is 6/4 = 1.5, and +4 = 5.5

NASOGASTRIC/OROGASTRIC TUBE OR FOLEY CATHETER SIZE

ETT x 2

NG/OG tubes and Foley catheters are measured as FRENCH. (Fr) If your ETT size is 5.5, then your NG/OG and Foley sizes will be 5.5 x 2 = 11 Fr.

HOW DEEP YOUR ETT SHOULD BE

ETT x 3

If your calculated tube size is 5.5, your depth should be 5.5 x 3 = 16.5 cm. So, 16.5 cm mark should be seen at the level of central incisors.

CHEST TUBE SIZE

ETT x 4

If the same six yo patient needs a chest tube, your chest tube size is 5.5 x 4 = 22 Fr. By the way, this is mainly for trauma. Moreover, do not forget, smaller size tubes can work as same as big ones.