Consider
- Mainstem intubation, pneumothorax/tension, pulmonary edema/ARDS, aspiration, atelectasis, severe shunt.
- Use bedside exam, ultrasound/CXR, pressure/volume trends, and clinical context.
Rescue pathway
Hypoxia: lung problem
If tube and circuit are correct, think lung mechanics and shunt.
Clinical review / use limits
Authored by: Airway of the Month education team. Last reviewed: July 2026. Audience: EM learners, faculty, EMS, RT, simulation educators, and airway teams.
This is an educational cognitive-aid scaffold, not a bedside order set. Verify medications, ventilator changes, pediatric dosing, and procedures against local ED, ICU, anesthesia, pharmacy, RT, EMS, and pediatric policies.
Resources · Editorial policy · ACEP intubation policy · ARDS ventilation reference