Indications for Endotracheal Intubation
The main reasons for intubation can be categorized into three broad categories:
1. Airway Protection
GCS ≤ 8, drug overdose, seizures, facial trauma, anaphylaxis.
2. Inadequate Oxygenation or Ventilation
i. Inadequate Oxygenation:
- ARDS, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, severe asthma.
ii. Inadequate Ventilation:
- COPD exacerbation, neuromuscular disease, hypercapnic respiratory failure.
iii. Respiratory Arrest:
- Apnea, bradypnea, impending respiratory failure.
3. Anticipated Clinical Deterioration
Sepsis, trauma, burns, hemoptysis, GI bleed, toxic ingestions.