What type of intubation blade is straight?
Straight laryngoscope blades are often recommended for use in neonates and infants to lift the epiglottis. The most common straight blades include the Miller, Wisconsin, Wis-Hipple, and Wis-Foregger blades.
What is a polio blade?
This equipment was originally designed to facilitate intubation in patients encased within iron lung ventilators during the polio epidemic. It is also useful in patients with barrel chest, restricted neck mobility or breast hypertrophy. These blades are more popularly used in conjunction with a short ‘stubby’ handle.
Which laryngoscope blade is preferred for intubating infants and children?
Miller straight laryngoscope blade
The Miller straight laryngoscope blade is regarded as the preferred blade to expose the laryngeal inlet in infants and children.
Where does the Mac blade go during intubation?
Intubation is usually performed with a laryngoscope. The Macintosh and Miller blades are most commonly used. The Macintosh blade is curved, and the tip is inserted into the vallecula (the space between the base of the tongue and the pharyngeal surface of the epiglottis) (Fig. 14.4A).
Does blade size affect intubation outcomes for novice trainees?
These findings indicate that the outcomes of intubation performed by novice trainees may be affected by the blade size used.
What is a curved intubation blade used for?
Curved blades are commonly used, especially by beginners because they are more forgiving of less than optimal placement and provide more room to pass the tube. However, it’s important to use them correctly. This article will discuss intubation technique using a curved blade.
How is intubation performed?
Intubation starts with positioning the head. The act of intubation by direct laryngoscopy alternates hands. One hand positions the patient for the next action by the other hand. With practice, coordinating the alternating hand movements becomes natural.
What is the optimal posture during intubation?
Optimal posture during intubation allows you full control of your arms, wrists and hands to control the blade. Keeping your back straight, your knees slightly bent and your left arm fairly rigid and against your side gives you the strength of your shoulders to lift the head.