1.36 Throat Packs

Question 1

List Reasons for inserting Throat pack

Answer 1

1. Absorb surgical debris or material from mouth
2. Prevent blood / fluids / debris entering lungs or oesophagus
3. Reduce leak exhaled gases around tube

4 Stabilise supraglottic airway
- especially edentulous patient

Question 2

Risk Reduction Postop throat pack retention

Answer 2

1. Visual
   Portion throat pack
   left external from mouth
   - visibly seen
2. Mark on patient
   tape or sticker
   head / neck / sternum
3. Visible label on Airway device
4. Label attached to anaesthetic machine
5. Throat pack securely tied or taped to airway
6. Verbal statement surgeons and anaesthetist to confirm removal

Question 3

Risk recution retention

Answer 3

Protocol driven double check
two members confirm insertion of throat pack
Recorded and inserted into notes and care plan

Incorporate into safe surgical checklist
recording of insertion with swab sharp count etc

Question 4

Complications of thorat pack

Answer 4

During insertion
Injury to lip tongue frenulum soft palate

dental damage

Uvula laceration

Question 5

Complications post op

Answer 5

Airway obstruction
Hypoxia
Neg pressure pulmonary oedema
resp arrest and death

Dysphagia

Sore throat post op