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Intubation

By Angela Morrow, RN, About.com

Updated: December 19, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by V.K. Gadi, MD

Definition: Insertion of a tube through the mouth or the nose and into a patient's lungs to help them breathe. Usually followed with mechanical ventilation which is the use of a machine to breathe for the patient. Commonly referred to as "on life support".
Also Known As: Breathing tube, life support

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