A review summarizing the 2024 joint ESAIC/BJA guidelines on airway management in neonates and infants (<1 year), with focus on implications for emergency medicine practice.
Key recommendations include: videolaryngoscopy as first-choice for intubation; apneic oxygenation during attempts; supraglottic airway devices for rescue if intubation fails; etomidate or ketamine plus neuromuscular blockade for sedation; stylet use with hyperangulated blades or anterior airways; end-tidal capnography for confirmation; and limiting intubation attempts with technique/provider changes after each failure.
This is a narrative review of existing guidelines, not a primary study — so no new data or outcomes are reported. The applicability of anesthesia-focused guidelines to emergency medicine settings (equipment availability, provider training) may vary.
In neonatal and infant emergencies, use videolaryngoscopy as the default intubation tool and always confirm placement with end-tidal capnography. Have a supraglottic airway ready as a rescue device, limit attempts, and be prepared to switch technique or provider early.
