Complications and emergencies mnemonic

Causes of sudden deterioration in an intubated, ventilated patient

The mnemonic

DOPE

What each word stands for

  • DDisplacement of the tube (oesophageal or endobronchial)
  • OObstruction of the tube by secretions, kinking or biting
  • PPneumothorax
  • EEquipment failure — circuit, ventilator, oxygen supply

Why it matters clinically

Gives a quick order of checks when oxygen saturation falls or the capnograph changes.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not list other causes such as bronchospasm, embolism or anaphylaxis.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Complications and emergencies mnemonic?

DOPE. It helps you recall: Causes of sudden deterioration in an intubated, ventilated patient.

What does "D" stand for?

Displacement of the tube (oesophageal or endobronchial)

What does "O" stand for?

Obstruction of the tube by secretions, kinking or biting

What does "P" stand for?

Pneumothorax

What are all the parts of the DOPE mnemonic?

D: Displacement of the tube (oesophageal or endobronchial); O: Obstruction of the tube by secretions, kinking or biting; P: Pneumothorax; E: Equipment failure — circuit, ventilator, oxygen supply.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Complications and emergencies in Anaesthesia.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not list other causes such as bronchospasm, embolism or anaphylaxis.

How is this useful clinically?

Gives a quick order of checks when oxygen saturation falls or the capnograph changes.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Anaesthesia question about Complications and emergencies.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.