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Protection of respiratory integrity and haemodynamic stabilization. Objectives: To perform an analysis of the protection of respiratory integrity and haemodynamic stabilization based on the literature review and the experiences and perspectives of emergency and ENT specialists.
Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was undertaken through PubMed and MEDLINE, using the following keywords: [protection of the respiratory integrity], [intubation], [hypotension] and [haemodynamic stabilization]. Articles were selected if the topic was relevant to current ENT and emergency practice. Additional articles were identified through a careful review of reference lists in Uptodate. A critical review of ENT and emergency specialists was carried out. Evidence staging and recommendation levels were established using the Paul Shekelle scale.
Results : Firstly, protection of the airway is necessary before starting haemodynamic stabilization. Fibre-optic examination and laryngeal intubation form the gold standard of diagnosis and treatment in the protection of the airway. For circulation, a short catheter with a large size allows the management of intravenous fluids, with vasopressors if necessary. Aetiologic and specific treatments are also very important.
Conclusions : Appropriate and collaborative management is necessary with the “ABCDE” approach: Airway and immobilization of the neck; Breathing; Circulation; Disability and Exposure. A fibre-optic examination is the gold standard of airway diagnosis. Laryngeal intubation is the most effective treatment for protection of the respiratory integrity. The management of circulation includes the implementation of a venous route to initiate administration of IVFs, preferably with isotonic saline. Vasopressors and inotropes are used as second line agents. A multidisciplinary and team approach is preferred, in order to achieve diagnosis and therapeutics simultaneously.