The ASA Difficult Airway Algorithm

The ASA Difficult Airway Algorithm is a step-by-step guide used by healthcare providers to safely manage situations where inserting a breathing tube is challenging. It involves assessing the airway, considering alternative methods for breathing support, and preparing specialized tools or techniques if initial attempts fail. The goal is to ensure the patient can breathe safely, minimize risks, and switch to other methods if standard approaches don't work. Essentially, it’s a structured plan designed to anticipate problems and provide clear options to maintain or restore the patient's airflow during procedures requiring anesthesia or airway management.