JEMS : a journal of emergency medical services
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Review
Strugging to breathe. Decision making in the assessment & treatment of acute respiratory distress.
Acute respiratory distress is a common and often serious emergency. Good patient outcomes require rapid and skilled assessment of the airway, breathing and oxygenation. The ability to assess work of breathing and knowing when and how to intervene before a patient with acute respiratory distress tires will enhance your ability to care for this challenging complaint.
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An unrecognized advanced airway displacement is one of the most devastating events a critically ill or injured patient can suffer. Teaching our students to properly restrain the airway and limit neck and body movement every time they practice the skill is essential. Combining these skills with proper monitoring and documentation ensures the best possible outcome for our patients, and protect themselves from a potentially devastating clinical error. As educators, we can improve this important part of airway management.