Keys to a Successful Intubation

• Use both hands-bimanual laryngoscopy should be a routine part of ED intubations.
• Don't forget that you CAN let up cricoid pressure-this can actually obscure your view and make your job more difficult.
• For obese patients, make sure you elevate them. You want their ear level with their sternal notch. This might require A LOT of pillows or towels.
• Use a "straight-to-cuff" technique for stylet shaping. This is accomplished by making the stylet straight down to the cuff and then making a 15-20 degree bend at the cuff.

References

The famous Ken Butler