Look for patients at increased risk for airway obstruction or who might be difficult to intubate in an emergency.

• Significant airway history
• Abnormal airway exam

Significant Airway History

• Known difficult intubation in the past
• Significant snoring
• Sleep apnea
• Conditions limiting neck mobility
• Upper respiratory infections
• Down's Syndrome
• Prior surgery or radiation therapy affecting airway structures

Normal Airway Examination

• Opens mouth normally
• Able to visualize at least part of the uvula and tonsillar pillars
• Normal chin length
• Normal neck flexion and extension without pain/paresthesias