PHACTORS: Impacting the "Platinum 10" Post-Intubation

The FlightBridgeED Podcast

In this engaging and insightful episode of the FlightBridgeED Podcast, Eric Bauer is joined by Dr. Michael Lauria as they delve into the intricacies of post-intubation care and the critical factors that impact patient outcomes during the first 10 minutes after intubation. Building on the well-established concepts of airway management and resuscitation, the discussion introduces the new acronym PHACTORS, which stands for Positive Pressure, Hypoxia, Acidemia, Cardiac Output, Transfer, Ongoing Pharmacology, Resuscitation, and Suction. Eric and Dr. Lauria explore how these elements play a pivotal role in the success or failure of post-intubation management, emphasizing the importance of maintaining vigilance during this critical phase. With practical tips, evidence-based insights, and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in pre-hospital critical care.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

1. Prioritize Post-Intubation Monitoring: The first 10 minutes after intubation are critical. Continuously monitor for hypotension and hypoxia, even if the initial intubation appears successful.
2. Transition to Ventilator Early: Whenever possible, transition intubated patients from BVM to a mechanical ventilator as soon as possible to ensure consistent and controlled ventilation, which reduces the risk of over- or under-ventilation.
3. Use Head-Elevated Positioning: Intubate patients in a head-elevated position (30 degrees) whenever possible to maintain functional residual capacity and reduce the risk of derecruitment and hypoxia.
4. Suction Regularly: Proactively suction the ET tube and oral cavity to maintain airway patency. This helps prevent complications like ventilator-associated pneumonia and ensures optimal oxygenation.
5. Be Ready with Push-Dose Pressors: Have push-dose pressors ready during and after intubation, especially in trauma patients or those with borderline hemodynamics, to quickly address any sudden drops in blood pressure.
6. Assess and Manage Acidosis Individually: Not all acidosis requires aggressive ventilation. Consider the patient's overall condition, and tailor your ventilation strategy based on the specific type and cause of acidosis.
7. Regular Sedation and Analgesia Dosing: Avoid under-sedation, particularly with long-acting paralytics like rocuronium. Set regular intervals for administering sedation and analgesia to ensure patient comfort and avoid awareness of paralysis.
8. Proactively Manage Cardiac Output: In patients with compromised cardiac function, focus on optimizing preload, afterload, and contractility. Use fluids, inotropes, and vasopressors as needed to maintain stable hemodynamics.
9. Secure and Streamline Lines for Transport: Before transferring a patient, ensure all lines are secured and organized to prevent dislodgement or kinking during movement. Keep access points readily available for quick medication administration.
10. Understand the Impact of Positive Pressure: Transitioning from spontaneous breathing to mechanical ventilation can significantly impact venous return and cardiac output. Be prepared to manage these changes, especially in hemodynamically unstable patients.