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Cannot intubate cannot oxygenate — RCPSC EM MCQ

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EasyResuscitation, procedures, airwayCannot intubate cannot oxygenateRCPSC EM

A 51-year-old with angioedema cannot be intubated after two expert attempts. Bag-mask ventilation and supraglottic airway fail, oxygen saturation is 58%, and the cricothyroid membrane is palpable. What is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: E — Perform emergency front-of-neck access

Perform emergency front-of-neck access is correct: the clues indicate Cannot intubate cannot oxygenate and this option addresses the immediate ED priority. The distractors delay care, target a less likely problem, or are unsafe in this physiology.

Reference: Canadian airway emergency practice; DAS/CICO principles