Rapid sequence induction for orotracheal intubation in the Emergency Department

Inducción de secuencia rápida para intubación orotraqueal en Urgencias

A patent airway is one of the major priorities in the critically ill patient. An altered airway is considered one of the main causes of death, and orotracheal intubation constitutes one of the most effective procedures for airway management.
Objective: To provide updated information on airway management using orotracheal intubation in the emergency department.
Materials and methods: A narrative review article is presented based on the literature found in PubMed, Ebsco, and Lilacs databases, complemented with expert opinion on airway management.
Results: In order to anticipate impending events and to manage the patient with imminent respiratory failure and other problems, a rapid clinical assessment is required to identify airway features, indications for intubation, and the appropriate use of the devices and medications. Benzodiazepines are widely used in these situations, but there are other medications with a better profile that could be used. The combination with an agent providing muscle relaxation is indispensable in order to facilitate intubation manoeuvres.
Conclusions: Anticipating [impending] events (by rapid sequence induction for orotracheal intubation) minimises the margin of error in clinical practice. Having all the required elements to deliver adequate patient care can lead to decreased response times in emergency situations.

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