During RSI for a deep-neck-space infection, two laryngoscopy attempts fail. A supraglottic airway does not ventilate, mask seal is impossible because

Question

During RSI for a deep-neck-space infection, two laryngoscopy attempts fail. A supraglottic airway does not ventilate, mask seal is impossible because of neck swelling, SpO2 is 68% and capnography is absent. What is the next action?

Accepted Answer

Perform emergency front-of-neck access, then confirm ventilation with capnography

Answer

Transfer to theatre with two-person bag-mask ventilation while anaesthesia assembles

Answer

Obtain CT neck to map anatomy before performing an invasive airway procedure

Answer

Administer a further paralytic dose while preparing a different supraglottic airway

Answer

Make one final video-laryngoscopy attempt using a bougie and external laryngeal manipulation

Cannot intubate cannot oxygenate after RSI — RCPSC EM MCQ

During RSI for a deep-neck-space infection, two laryngoscopy attempts fail. A supraglottic airway does not ventilate, mask seal is impossible because of neck swelling, SpO2 is 68% and capnography is absent. What is the next action?