(3) Magill forceps. These forceps can be used to advance the tube between
the vocal cords.
(4) Laryngoscope. Check this instrument for batteries and check the light.
Select the blade you are going to use and assemble the blade. (The curved blade
provides more working space, but the straight blade allows you to see better.)
(5)
Suction apparatus with a tonsillar tip.
(6) J-tube (oropharyngeal) airway. A J-tube is a white plastic or black
rubber tube that is used to keep the tongue out of the way.
(7)
Anesthetic spray, if available.
b. Place the equipment next to the casualty's head, where the equipment is
needed.
c. Position the casualty so that you have the best possible view of the larynx.
The casualty should be in a "sniffing" position with a towel under his neck.
d. Turn on the suction apparatus.
NOTE:
OPTIONAL PROCEDURE--place a stylet into the tube prior to oxygenation
and insertion of the laryngoscope.
e. Check the casualty's corneal reflex and his gag reflex, then oxygenate the
casualty with two slow breaths. Check the casualty for the presence of a corneal reflex
by touching the casualty's cornea with your fingers. If the eyelid does not try to close,
continue with the procedure. If the eyelid tries to close (blink), the gag reflex is still
present, and you cannot proceed with insertion of the device. Periodically recheck for
the reflex, and when the eyelid does not try to close, continue with the procedure.
f. Insert the laryngoscope and place the tube.
(1)
Grasp the laryngoscope with your left hand.
(2)
Insert the laryngoscope into the right side of the casualty's mouth.
(3) Bring the blade to the center or midline of the mouth, moving the tongue
to the left side.
(4)
Advance the blade a short distance.
(5)
Visualize the epiglottis.
MD0569
2-11