What is the purpose of rapid sequence intubation (RSI)?

The purpose of rapid sequence intubation (RSI) is to secure the airway quickly and safely in patients who are at risk of aspiration or have compromised airways. This procedure is particularly crucial in trauma and emergency situations, where a patient may be unresponsive or unable to maintain their airway due to injury, medical conditions, or altered mental status.

In such cases, the risk of aspiration—where stomach contents may enter the lungs—poses a significant threat, and securing the airway through intubation is vital in preventing this complication. RSI involves the rapid administration of a sedative and a neuromuscular blocker, allowing for rapid intubation without the risk of spontaneous ventilation leading to aspiration.

Although medications for sedation are administered during RSI, the primary objective is airway protection and securing it effectively. Other interventions like surgical airway techniques may be necessary in specific situations, but they are not the focus of RSI. Similarly, while maintaining a clear airway during transport is essential, RSI specifically addresses the secure establishment of an airway due to the potential for immediate respiratory failures.