Rapid sequence induction (RSI) is a medical procedure involving the expeditious induction of general anesthesia and subsequent intubation of the trachea. RSI is typically used in an emergency setting or for patients in the operating room. RSI is most-commonly performed by physicians, respiratory therapists and nurse anesthetists. Paramedics in the pre-hospital setting also utilize RSI techniques when necessary. RSI is a high-risk procedure where airway management is the primary purpose. The advantage of using rapid sequence induction is to quickly induce unconsciousness and cause paralysis which allow for easier tracheal intubation. This also places the patient at a very high risk for respiratory compromise should the procedure be unsuccessful, since the paralysis also prevents the patient from protecting his own airway (the patient cannot "cough" or "gag"), and blocks the natural respiratory drive, with ketamine being an exception.
Read more about Rapid Sequence Induction: Technique, Additional Considerations, Controversy
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