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Table 1 Progressive evaluation scheme for tracheal intubation

From: Teaching tracheal intubation: Airtraq is superior to Macintosh laryngoscope

1. Prepare the laryngoscope, anti-bite block, sticky tapes and stethoscope

10

For Macintosh laryngoscope, check the light, keep the light off during preparation, put a stylet in the tube and shape the tube For Airtraq laryngoscope, turn on the light, put the tube in the side channel

2. Efficient mask ventilation

10

3. Proper extension of the atlantooccipital joint

10

4. Proper insertion of laryngoscope

10

Insert Macintosh laryngoscope from the right side of the mouth, move toward the midline

Insert Airtraq laryngoscope along the midline

5. Appropriate request for help to press cricoid or BURP (backward, upward, and right-sided pressure)

10

6. Efficient glottis exposure, Cormack-Lehane Grade I or II

10

7. Insert the tube into the trachea to an appropriate depth

10

8. Inflate cuff of the tube to an appropriate pressure

10

9. Auscultate both lungs to identify position of the tube, place anti-bite block, secure the tube with tapes

10

10. Time of intubation less than 150 s, calculated from opening the mouth to the first appearance of normal wave capnography

10

Inserted tube is too deep resulting in one-lung ventilation

-10

Failed intubation, i.e. tube not inserted into the tracheal within 150 s from opening the mouth or tube inserted into the oesophagus

-10