Airway Management Flashcards

A combative patient requires RSI. After administering succinylcholine, you are unable to visualize the cords after two attempts. What is the next step?

Answer: Declare a failed airway and proceed per protocol (BVM then surgical airway)

After two failed intubation attempts, a failed airway algorithm should be activated, prioritizing oxygenation via BVM and preparing for surgical airway if needed.

Which laryngoscope blade is preferred for a patient with a long, floppy epiglottis?

Answer: Miller (straight) blade

The Miller straight blade directly lifts the epiglottis, making it preferred when the epiglottis is long or floppy.

What is the minimum oxygen saturation that should be maintained during intubation attempts?

Answer: 90%

Pulse oximetry should not drop below 90% during intubation; if it does, stop and re-oxygenate with BVM before reattempting.

A supraglottic airway device (e.g., King LT) is inserted but you are unable to achieve adequate ventilation. What should you check FIRST?

Answer: Cuff pressures and tube depth

Inadequate ventilation with a supraglottic airway most commonly results from improper depth or insufficiently inflated cuffs.

Which medication used in RSI provides neuromuscular blockade with the LONGEST duration of action?

Answer: Vecuronium

Vecuronium is a non-depolarizing agent with a duration of 25-40 minutes, longer than rocuronium (30-60 min) and much longer than succinylcholine (8-12 min).

During transport of an intubated patient, EtCO2 suddenly drops to near zero. What is the FIRST concern?

Answer: Tube displacement or disconnection

A sudden drop in EtCO2 to near zero most commonly indicates tube displacement, disconnection, or cardiac arrest.

Which sign is MOST reliable to confirm esophageal intubation in the field?

Answer: Flat waveform on continuous capnography

Continuous capnography waveform absence (flat line) is the most reliable indicator of esophageal intubation in the prehospital setting.