Christopher Kabrhel, M.D., Todd W. Thomsen, M.D., Gary S. Setnik, M.D., and Ron M. Walls, M.D.
N Engl J Med 2007; 356:e15 | April 26, 2007
About the Procedure
Emergency orotracheal intubation is indicated in any situation in which definitive control of the airway is needed. Specific indications include cardiac or respiratory arrest, failure to protect the airway from aspiration, inadequate oxygenation or ventilation, and impending or existing airway obstruction. Orotracheal intubation is also commonly performed as part of the care of the critically ill patient with multisystem disease or injuries, and to facilitate control of the airway during surgical procedures requiring general anesthesia. Contraindications: In emergent cases, such as cardiac arrest, airway management is of paramount importance, and there are very few contraindications to orotracheal intubation. Unstable . . . .
