ABCs
Ok- When we insert an airway, it is to obtain patent airway, to which you don't have if you are inserting one. You shouldn't be using very much lube on the tube, plus it is water soluable, will be absorbed in the lungs if I'm not mistaken, unless the lungs are already full of fluid. If you have an patent airway, keep it that way, always fall back on your ABCs. ANYTHING by mouth to a pt who cannot swallow or an obstructed airway is a big no-no. If it becomes more critical or the trip to the ER is a ways away, D50 IM or IV, at least by our protocols, call for ALS backup, vs. the pt aspirating and you documenting giving the pt something po.