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Techniques of Airway Management in General Practice

Article information

J Korean Med Assoc. 2005;48(3):277-286
Publication date (electronic) : 2005 March 31
doi : https://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2005.48.3.277
Hyuk Jun Yang, M.D.
Department of Emergency Medicine, Gachon Medical School, Gil Medical Center, Korea. yanghj@ghil.com

Abstract

Airway management is one of the most critical interventions required to save a life. It is essential that primary physicians be as well prepared as possible with numerous techniques available for airway control. Optimal airway management requires an experienced caregiver, attention to details, and knowledge of the patient's physiology. A variety of pharmacological agents have proved useful in securing a patent airway and minimizing the risk to the patient. Depending on the skills of the caregiver, endotracheal intubation has become the preferred means of airway control in most patients. Advances in technique, equipment, and pharmacology have greatly improved the art of airway management; however, there is no substitute for an experienced clinician. This article reviews some of the useful techniques available. Perhaps the most important aspect of advanced airway management is the ability to recognize and be prepared for difficult airways. This article introduces a list of options for difficult airway situations.

Keywords: Airway management; Endotracheal intubation; Rapid sequence intubation; Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation

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Article information Continued

Copyright © 2005 Korean Medical Association

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