Quick checklist

Step 3: Airway

Critical actions first, then pearls and pitfalls.

Critical actions

Preoxygenation/apneic oxygenation maintained. Attempt clock watched; oxygenation prioritized. Pass tube only when view/trajectory make sense. Confirm with continuous waveform ETCO₂. Call Plan B early if oxygenation or view is failing.

Pearls

Stop digging and oxygenate when the attempt is not improving.
Change one meaningful variable before the next attempt.

Pitfalls

Repeating the same failed attempt.
Accepting color change without waveform ETCO₂ when waveform is available.

Educational resource only. Use institutional protocols, local policy, and bedside clinical judgment. Not a substitute for supervised training, medical direction, or emergency care guidance.