The Journal of air medical transport
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Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBs) are frequently used to facilitate intubations in the hospital. The 1987 membership of the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS) was surveyed to determine the frequency of NMB use by flight programs both before and after definitive airway control. Out of 141 programs, 101 returned completed survey forms. ⋯ The presence of a physician on the flight crew was associated with the use of succinylcholine prior to definitive airway control. Reported complications included three deaths attributed to use of NMBs in the preceding two years. We conclude that NMBs are commonly used following intubation, and that NMBs are used before intubation by some flight programs, especially those that have physician crew members.