Video Laryngoscopy

Airway · Anesthesia · 10–20 min

Intubation using a video laryngoscope for enhanced glottic view.

Indications

  • Anticipated difficult airway
  • Cervical spine precautions
  • Failed direct laryngoscopy

Contraindications

  • Limited mouth opening (relative)

Equipment

  • Video laryngoscope + blade
  • ETT with rigid stylet (hyperangulated blade)
  • Suction

Positioning

  • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • Explain risks & complications
  • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • Hand hygiene
  • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • Aseptic technique
  • Sharps safety
  • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/5)

Tap to complete

1. Prep as for intubation

Pre-oxygenate; drugs ready.

2. Insert blade midline

3. Visualize glottis

4. Pass tube

5. Confirm with ETCO2

Immediate complications

  • Dental/soft-tissue injury
  • Failure to intubate despite good view

Prevention

  • Two-person insertion of stylet-loaded ETT

Post-procedure observation

  • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • Site inspection
  • Symptom review

Documentation

  • Procedure note
  • Consent
  • Findings

Patient instructions

  • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds