TDNet Discover

Background: The airway management of obese patients presents a unique set of challenges for anesthesia providers. Tools like video laryngoscopes and patient-specific automated reminders have been developed to help facilitate airway management and patient care. Purpose: The purpose of this literature review is to determine if the use of patient-specific automated reminders for the use of video laryngoscopy (VL) improves intubation success rates in adult obese patients in the state of Arizona. Methods: A thorough literature search was conducted using PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. Articles that focused on comparing the use of video-assisted laryngoscope devices versus direct laryngoscope devices in patients with a body mass index (BMI) greater or equal to 30, the effectiveness of patient-specific automated reminders in healthcare, studies conducted on human subjects, and studies published from 2010 through May 2024. Results: VL provided superior visualization of the larynx compared to direct laryngoscopy (DL). Intubating with a video laryngoscope improved first-pass tracheal intubation success rates compared to a direct laryngoscope, especially in obese patients with proper patient positioning. Patient-specific automated reminders are an effective tool aiding in patient care management. These reminders can potentially enhance patient care by encouraging the use of VL in obese patients to facilitate airway management. Conclusion: VL demonstrates superior obese airway management, improved glottic visualization, and increased intubation success rates. Patient-specific automated reminders increased guideline compliance and improved patient care.