Aims and Intended Learning Outcomes

OUTCOMES The aim of this article is to review basic and advanced methods of opening and clearing an airway and to discuss effective means of ventilation and oxygenation in A&E. As an A&E nurse, you are encouraged to look at your practice and ask yourself: ‘Am I providing the best for my patient?’ After reading this article you should be able to: Describe and perform basic airway opening devices Be aware of a range of airway adjuncts Select an appropriate device for assisted ventilation; understand the rationale for its use Discuss the merits of newer devices for advanced airway management and why such devices are more appropriate for use by non-anaesthetic trained staff The ability to maintain a clear, patent airway is a vital skill required for all types of emergencies, both medical and trauma, and yet it is often poorly performed. Airway maintenance techniques can be divided into basic and advanced. Newer devices such as the laryngeal mask airway (LMAs) and combitubes are classed as advanced airway techniques but are much easier to use than intubation.