Airway will always come first. If you don't have a patent airway, you don't have a patient. There should be no question as to when you secure the airway...do what's best for the patient.
Yes there are times when you need to 'load and go', but you must be sure that the patient is being ventilated appropriately. There is no shame in BVM-ing a patient if you have a short flight home.
We fly a BO-105 and tubing in the aircraft can be a challenge if you are a big person or have little flexibility. Personally, if the patient doesn't have a patent airway when we get on scene,then they have to get one before we leave. If its an elective intubation, then the aircraft is fine. If its a crash intubation, then the aircraft is the only choice.
Great discussion....lots of good food for thought.
Fly Safe
Tracey
Georgia Baptist LifeFlight
