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What to do when you can't intubate can't ventilate?

User Jivago
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Final answer:

In cases when intubation and ventilation are not possible, a surgical airway procedure or a needle cricothyroidotomy can be performed to restore ventilation. Immediate medical assistance should be sought in such situations.

Step-by-step explanation:

If you are unable to intubate and ventilate a patient, it can be a life-threatening situation. In such cases, the next step is to perform a surgical airway procedure called a cricothyroidotomy. This involves making an incision in the front of the neck and inserting a tube directly into the trachea to bypass the upper airway obstruction and restore ventilation.

Another option is to perform a needle cricothyroidotomy, which involves inserting a large-bore needle through the cricothyroid membrane to create an emergency airway. This is a temporary measure that buys time until a definitive airway can be established.

It is crucial to call for emergency medical care immediately if you are unable to intubate or ventilate a patient, as these situations require urgent intervention by trained medical professionals.

User Ashish Sarkar
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