What is the purpose of endotracheal intubation during anesthesia?

Endotracheal intubation is primarily performed to secure the airway for ventilation, ensuring that it remains open and unobstructed during surgical procedures. This is crucial because it allows for direct delivery of anesthetic gases and oxygen to the lungs, as well as providing a means for mechanical ventilation if the patient is unable to breathe on their own due to anesthesia or the nature of the surgery. By obtaining access to the trachea, the anesthetist can maintain effective ventilation throughout the procedure, which is essential for both patient safety and effective anesthesia management.

Administering medications, monitoring blood pressure, and providing oxygen post-surgery do occur in the context of anesthesia care, but they are not the primary reasons for performing endotracheal intubation. Instead, intubation specifically addresses the critical need for airway management and adequate ventilation during anesthesia.