Which of the following is NOT listed as a method to secure an endotracheal tube?

• A. A simple headband
• B. Screw clamp: Secures the ETT to the holder without blocking the tube
• C. Hook-and-loop strap system: Secures the ETT to the holder
• D. Cloth tape: Knotted around the ETT and patient's neck

Answer: (A)

Securing an endotracheal tube requires a stable, medical-grade fixation method that keeps the tube in place without occluding the lumen or hindering airway checks. A simple headband is not an approved or reliable method for airway security; it can shift, slip, or apply uneven pressure, increasing the risk of tube displacement or airway obstruction. In contrast, methods like a screw clamp that locks the tube to the holder, a hook-and-loop strap system, and cloth tape knotted around the tube and neck are designed to provide dependable fixation, protect the airway, and allow quick removal if necessary. These approaches align with practice aims to minimize movement while keeping the tube secure and accessible for assessment.