Why is this topic important? Airway problems can be a rapid and common cause of death for patients with COVID-19.

For whom: This section will be relevant to all health care practitioners caring for patients with COVID-19 but may be of particular relevance to (in order):

  1. Physicians from acute care specialties covering intensive care during the pandemic;
  2. Non-critical care nurses covering intensive care during the pandemic;
  3. A refresher for anaesthesiologists, critical care physicians, and respiratory therapists.

Your potential role: Depending on jurisdiction and regulatory conditions, in extreme conditions, physicians from acute care specialties without advanced airway skills maybe required to manage a patient who is losing their airway. The non-critical care nurse may end up supporting this activity.


Resources
The following resources are meant to supplement your learning in practice- and/or simulation-based settings. NB: Some resources may be more/less pertinent based on your profession, scope of practice, and the model of care within your local context.