[Pre-medication for tracheal intubation].

Suggested citation: Reis AGAC. Pre-medication for tracheal intubation. J Pediatr (Rio J). 2004;80:341-3. The pathophysio logic ef fects provoked by laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation are generally shortlived, however, in certain circumstances, they may become more serious and long-lasting, and manifest as apnea, nausea, coughing, laryngospasm and bronchospasm, with consequent gastroesophageal reflux, difficulties viewing the larynx, obstruction of the airway, hypoxia, hypercapnia, pulmonary edema reduced cardiac output. In addition to respiratory reactions, direct laryngoscopy also alters cardiovascular function and provokes arterial hypertension, tachycardia or bradyarrhythmia and a significant increase in intracrania l and intraoccular pressure. Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) consists of the appropriate use of medication to reduce the duration of direct laryngoscopy, facilitate the passage of the tracheal tube and reduce the adverse effects of this procedure.1 It is an organized approach that involves the use of analgesic, sedative and paralyzing agents.2 Rapid sequence intubation is a term applied in emergency care medicine and it implies control of the airway via tracheal intubation in a rapid and safe manner.1,2