SAQ 792 – Anaesthetics – intubation timing in septic shock

Marked out of 18.00

A 68-year-old previously independent woman has septic shock thought to be urinary in origin. She has severe rheumatoid arthritis, congestive cardiac failure and chronic renal failure. Regular medications include methotrexate 10 mg weekly, prednisolone 5 mg daily and frusemide 20 mg each morning. Despite antibiotics and 1.5 L of IV fluid she remains hypotensive, and the team feels intubation is required to facilitate further care.

Outline six (6) factors that would influence your decision about the timing of intubation.

(Marked out of 6.0)

Observation Value
GCS 14, confused
HR 108 bpm
BP 80/50 mmHg
SaO2 86% on 15 L oxygen via non-rebreather mask
RR 34/min


/ 6

You decide to intubate and the vital signs are unchanged. Outline four (4) strategies addressing the anatomical challenges for intubation.

(Marked out of 4.0)


/ 4

Outline eight (8) treatment strategies addressing the physiological challenges during intubation.

(Marked out of 8.0)


/ 8

Total Score: 0 / 18

Percentage: 0%