Rapid Sequence Induction

Anesthesia

Technique to secure the airway quickly while minimising aspiration risk in non-fasted or high-risk patients.

Investigations

  • Pre-op assessment, NBM status
  • Airway assessment (Mallampati, mouth opening, neck movement)

Management

  • Pre-oxygenate 3 min with 100% O₂
  • Cricoid pressure (controversial)
  • IV induction agent + neuromuscular blocker simultaneously
  • Intubate without bag-mask ventilation

Drug therapy

  • Propofol 2 mg/kg or ketamine 1–2 mg/kg (shock)
  • Suxamethonium 1.5 mg/kg or rocuronium 1.2 mg/kg
  • Fentanyl 1–2 µg/kg for haemodynamic stability

Complications

  • Aspiration
  • Failed intubation
  • Hypotension
  • Sux: hyperkalaemia, MH

Clinical pearls

  • Plan A/B/C/D airway strategy before induction (DAS guidelines)

Educational — verify locally.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds