In a cannot-ventilate cannot-intubate scenario, what is the immediate objective?

• A. Ventilate with a rescue airway while planning a definitive airway or cricothyrotomy if necessary.
• B. Immediately perform a full surgical airway without trying other steps.
• C. Stop attempting airway management.
• D. Only administer oxygen via mask and wait.

Answer: (A)

In a cannot-ventilate cannot-intubate situation, the immediate objective is to re-establish ventilation as quickly as possible by inserting a rescue airway so you can deliver breaths and oxygen while you plan a definitive airway. If ventilation remains impossible with a rescue device, escalate to a cricothyrotomy. This approach focuses on rapid oxygen delivery and ventilation to prevent hypoxic injury, rather than waiting or persisting with unsuccessful attempts. Avoid delaying for a definitive airway without first attempting a rescue airway, and don’t rely on oxygen via mask alone, since that won’t provide effective ventilation when the airway is not secured.