| abstract |
A method of monitoring patient use of an endotracheal tube with a ventilator includes receiving in a controller, such as in a stand-alone monitoring device or in the ventilator itself, force data indicative of a biting force of the patient on the endotracheal tube, wherein the force data is based on force signals generated by a force sensor coupled to the endotracheal tube (e.g., either directly or by way of a bite block). The method further includes analyzing the force data in the controller, and determining in the controller from the analyzing of the force data that the force data is indicative of one or more of: (i) at least a predetermined threshold level of agitation or discomfort of the patient, and (ii) a current or likely attempt to self-extubate by the patient. |