Airway management in the transfer of the unconscious patient.
Thirty-one consecutive unconscious patients admitted to a specialist neurosurgical centre for computerised axial tomography and further management were reviewed with emphasis upon initial airway management. Fourteen patients had inadequate airway control on arrival and needed immediate intubation. Six of this group developed pulmonary complications. The implications of this are discussed and certain recommendations made.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000402:Airway Obstruction / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications; D002543:Cerebral Hemorrhage / Q000150:complications; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007427:Intracranial Pressure; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014187:Transportation of Patients; D014474:Unconsciousness / Q000628:therapy*