Which statement best describes the purpose of a tube holder or tape in airway management?

The purpose of a tube holder or tape in airway management is primarily to secure the endotracheal tube after it has been properly placed in the trachea. This is crucial as it ensures that the tube remains in the correct position during ventilation, preventing dislodgement that could lead to inadequate ventilation or airway obstruction. Effective airway management relies on maintaining a clear and stable path for air to enter the lungs, and securing the tube is essential to achieving this goal.

While sedation can aid in patient comfort, monitoring vital signs is critical for assessing the patient's condition, and sterilization is important in preventing infection, none of these roles directly pertain to the securing function of the tube holder or tape. Instead, their primary role is to maintain the integrity of the airway intervention, thus enhancing patient safety and the effectiveness of ventilation strategies.