RSI: rapid sequence intubation; SpO2: oxygen saturation; PIM: post-intubation management; BMV: bag-mask ventilation; EGA: extraglottic airway device; ILMA: intubating laryngeal mask.
* A failed airway exists when the clinician cannot oxygenate or ventilate a patient. Clinically, this occurs when a patient cannot be intubated and ventilation with a bag and mask or extraglottic device fails to maintain oxyhemoglobin saturations above 90%. Refer to the topic and algorithm discussing management of the failed airway.
¶ During RSI, physiologic derangements such as hypotension and hypoxemia place the patient at great risk of cardiovascular collapse during the peri-intubation period. Possible interventions to prevent such collapse include an intravenous bolus of isotonic fluid and press-dose vasopressor in the hypotensive patient, and flush-rate administration of oxygen and apneic oxygenation in the hypoxic patient. Please refer to UpToDate topics on RSI for further detail.