Open Access Opinion Article

The Art of the ICU Intubation: Beyond the Airway

Aaron Lim MD1* and Amanda Williams MD2

1,2Department of Anesthesiology, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, USA

Corresponding Author

Received Date: July 21, 2021;  Published Date:August 24, 2021

Abstract

As anesthesiologists we are commonly consulted for intubation in the ICU. These critically ill patients are at high risk of aspiration and have varying degrees of cardiovascular and respiratory insufficiency. While “intubation” is the reason for consult, placing the endotracheal tube should be the easiest part of the procedure in expert hands and maintaining stable hemodynamics should be prioritized. Thus, the true art in performing the ICU intubation lies in the preparation, induction, and post-intubation management of a patient unknown to you just minutes prior. Below are five recommendations highlighting the finer points of the seemingly simple yet complex procedure.

Keywords:ICU intubation; Hemodynamics; Airway management.

Abbreviations:1.Operating Room (OR).
2.Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

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