Appropriately sized airway equipment should be prepared in anticipation of intubation.
The appropriate size of a cuffed ETT can be calculated using the formula:
(Age in years/4) + 3.5
For uncuffed ETT the size is generally increased by 0.5 ie (Age in years/4) + 4
A cuffed ETT is usually selected but this is based on provider preference. Regardless of the type stocked in your department, a size above and below the calculated size should be immediately available.
The appropriate depth of insertion of an oral ETT in centimetres can be calculated using the formula:
(Age/2) + 12
Remember that the pediatric airway is short so the risk of accidental extubation or endobronchial intubation is high. Providers must maintain vigilance, especially on moving the patient.