Nurse Anesthetist how-to
How to Manage a Difficult Airway
Preparation saves lives.
Quick answer
Preparation saves lives. In short: anticipate; have; preoxygenate, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Anticipate with airway assessment.
Have backup devices ready.
Preoxygenate well.
Use video laryngoscopy if needed.
Call for help early.
Follow the difficult airway algorithm.
Safety reminders for nurse anesthetists
- Complete machine and drug checks
- Label all syringes
- Follow difficult airway algorithms
- Prevent infection with sterile technique
Key terms
CRNA · Induction · Intubation · Regional anesthesia · Nerve block · MAC: see the full nurse anesthetist glossary.