Final answer:
During the cricoid pressure maneuver in endotracheal intubation, a second assistant secures the airway. This maneuver prevents regurgitation and maintains an open airway. The technique is crucial during emergencies and surgeries.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you use the cricoid pressure maneuver during bag-valve-mask ventilation and endotracheal intubation, a second assistant secures the airway. The cricoid pressure maneuver, also known as Sellick's maneuver, is applied to prevent regurgitation of stomach contents by compressing the cricoid cartilage against the vertebral column. This technique is often used in conjunction with endotracheal intubation to maintain an open airway and to avoid potential complications, such as aspiration of gastric contents.
Endotracheal intubation involves placing a tube into the trachea to ensure a clear pathway for air to reach the lungs. This is a critical procedure during emergencies or surgeries when a patient may not be able to maintain their own airway due to obstruction, general anesthesia, or other reasons. After the procedure, it may take some time for the patient to wake up and regain control of respiration, during which the airway must remain secured.