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OUTLINE & NOTES (pdf file)
"Difficult" airways are more of a concept than a defined occurrence. On any given day, any airway could represent a convergence of factors that leads to a failed airway and poor patient outcome. This presentation will explore some of the difficulties that can present, as well as develop strategies to overcome them.
Learning Outcomes:
- Review the concepts of difficult airways
- Discuss the need for an intubation/RSI plan
- Discuss/demonstrate various methods of managing a "difficult"/failed airway
- Discuss the human factors that enhance/impair airway management
Resources:
Video: The Elaine Bromiley Case
This re-enacted, real-time video fundamentally changed how I approached the concept of difficult airways, and was the reason for developing RSI 201. This is a must-watch for anyone involved in emergent airway management.
More on the Bromiley case via EMCrit
Video: Surgical Cricothyrotomy
Video: Retrograde Intubation
Stuart Marshall on Human Factors in Airway Management
Alfred ICU Intubation Checklist