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Abstract

Within the setting of trauma, there are many indications for intubation and ventilation, but the ultimate aims are always the same. These are to ensure airway patency and security, provide an acceptable level of arterial oxygenation at the lowest possible inspired oxygen concentration, control arterial carbon dioxide tension and optimize pulmonary and systemic blood flow.

The clinical situation, developing trends, and the experience of the individual concerned will all influence the decision to intubate and ventilate the patient who has suffered trauma. This paper considers the ‘rule-of-thumb’ indications for intubation in the emergency room and discusses the factors which may influence their interpretation.

Keywords

intubation ventilation acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)pulmonary oedema oropharyngeal oedema inhalational injury trauma

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When to ventilate

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