3) Cricoid pressure

[Editor]

3)cricoid pressure

a)always prevents aspiration of gastric contents
b)can cause rupture of the oesophagus
c)requires 44N to be effective
d)is ineffective in children
e)is useless in the presence of a naso gastric tube

FTTFF

[sangram]

20N force is generally protective and less than 40N force does not usually add to intubation difficulty. We need to apply to maintain the force at the target of 30N (25-35N). We do use it in paediatric age group (cricoid is the narrowest part in them- to remind you). NGT can make it less effective, but still useful. Doesnt always prevent aspiration. Can rupture esophagus, especially if patient vomits.