The invention of video-assisted laryngoscopy and intubation has been a huge boon to trauma professionals. So it irks me to no end when I see them misusing the technology.

I call this phenomenon non-video laryngoscopy and intubation. Take a look at this picture:

What’s wrong, you say? Who’s watching the #@*! video screen??!

This intubator is basically using a clunky, old-fashioned laryngoscope tethered by two huge cables. Which makes it worse than a clunky, old-fashioned laryngoscope.

Bottom line: Your hospital has provided an expensive piece of equipment to help you intubate better and more reliably. You no longer have to peer down a narrow channel in the oropharynx, while blocking your own view with the ET tube.

Watch the damn screen!

(Photo source: epmonthly.com)