What complication can arise from improper intubation into the right mainstem bronchus?

Improper intubation into the right mainstem bronchus can lead to unilateral lung expansion because when the endotracheal tube is positioned too far down the right bronchus, only the right lung is ventilated. This means that the left lung does not receive air effectively, resulting in inadequate ventilation on that side. Consequently, while the right lung expands and fills with air, the left lung will remain collapsed or underinflated, leading to an obvious imbalance in lung function.

This situation can also contribute to other complications, but the most direct and immediate result of such misplacement is the unilateral issue of lung expansion. It's crucial for healthcare providers to confirm proper tube placement through various means, such as auscultation of breath sounds and capnography, to ensure that both lungs are being adequately ventilated.