Intubation During Cardiac Resuscitation

Intubating patients during cardiac resuscitation is often challenging because of the circumstances surrounding the intubation. Excitement and apprehension accompany this life saving effort. In addition, The patient is often in a less than optimal position while chest compressions are in progress. You usually find the patient in one of two awkward positions: on the ground or in a bed. This article discusses techniques to better manage intubation during cardiac resuscitation, especially with the patient in an awkward position. Read More …

Cardiac Arrest In The OR

Cardiac arrest in the OR is challenging both to recognize as well as to treat. You must be able to work the causal diagnosis in the face of some potentially complex anesthetic, surgical and comorbid combinations. At the same time you must perform a resuscitation, often in the face of ongoing surgery. Getting prepared for rare events is often more challenging than preparing for regular events. When a rare event happens the shock and fear induced by the event can erase protocol from the most prepared mind. This article shares learnings from my years of experience attending to emergency resuscitations and management of cardiac arrests in the OR. Read More …