department banner

Airway Management

Administer 100% oxygen

Suspect inhalation injury if:

  • Injury occurred in enclosed space
  • Presence of facial burns singed nasal hairs, carbonaceous sputum, soot on teeth or tongue, inflamed oral or nasal mucosa

Assess for airway distress

  • Rapid respiratory rate, agitation, hoarse voice, stridor, cyanosis

Tip: If inhalation injury is suspected, consider early intubation

Monitor carboxyhemoglobin levels

  • <15% rarely symptomatic
  • 15% - 40% associated with CNS changes
  • 40% - 60% associated with obtundation