As a foundational tool in the basic airway management toolkit, bag valve mask ventilation can save lives, relieve patient stress, and make transport easier. Bag valve mask ventilation is appropriate when a patient shows signs of hypoxic respiratory failure, apnea, or hypoxically induced altered mental states. Patients who are hyperventilating or have sustained injuries that reduce respiratory effort may also require ventilation. It may be appropriate to ventilate women in labor when there is reason to believe that they are not getting adequate oxygen or are so fatigued that breathing becomes difficult.

For years, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has declared May National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, which offers the perfect opportunity to educate patients, families, caregivers, and health care providers about the unique needs of those living with asthma and allergies. 

Age, weak muscle tone, chronic illnesses, and changes in the throat and esophagus increase the rate of airway obstructions in the elderly. A recent study that used spirometry measures as a clinical indicator of airway obstructions in patients aged 60-93 found an obstruction rate of 22.5%.

A suction machine is a key component of any medical toolkit. In hospital settings, it prevents aspiration and protects the airway during medical procedures ranging from routine to revolutionary. SSCOR offers a range of suction devices for every agency and in every need.

We all know that treating pediatric patients is nothing like treating adults. For one thing, young patients tend to add even more stress to any emergency. The infrequency with which emergency personnel treat pediatrics usually equates to less assurance and more anxiety. Children also require a separate set of drug dosages, which can be difficult to memorize when used so infrequently.

When you think of in-hospital suction, you probably picture the typical wall-mounted unit that is supplied by vacuum lines piped throughout the building. What may not come readily to mind are portable suction units, but portable suction plays a vital role in the hospital setting. Let's familiarize ourselves with in-hospital suction strategies.

There are many factors to consider when performing an airway assessment, and some of those factors can present obstacles for all patients and providers involved. Trauma patients require extra care and caution when receiving airway assessments, and substantial research has been done on unique risks for these patients and things providers must keep in mind when treating them.

Most of us know what it’s like to be enjoying a nice meal when suddenly, you take too large of a bite and your food goes down the wrong pipe, causing some coughing and possible throat irritation. If you’re lucky, the coughing and discomfort won’t last long, but sometimes, these incidents result in choking, which often calls for more serious medical attention. 

Advanced airway management goes beyond simple techniques you might learn in a single class. Advanced airway techniques fall into three broad categories, each with various techniques and skills a practitioner must master. 

You’re responding to a choking involving an obstruction. As you know, obstructions can be mild, making breathing difficult or painful, or they can be urgent and life-threatening, as is the case with a choking child.