Through auditing it's been noted that paramedics are not documenting SGA placement confirmation: Let's highlight why this is important

SGA Confirmation​

• Supraglottic airway placement must be confirmed and documented by either primary orsecondary methods, to ensure the device is placed appropriately. ​
• Primary confirmation includes the use of ETCO2 waveform capnography. ​
• This is the most reliable method. ​
• Secondary methods may be used if waveform capnography is unavailable​
• If using secondary methods, need At LEAST TWO of:​
• Chest rise and fall​
• Chest auscultation ​
• ETCO2 non-waveform device

Primary Method​

• ​ETCO2 Waveform ETCO2

Secondary Method​

• Chest auscultation​
• Chest rise and fall​
• Non-waveform capnography​

Documentation is Essential

• When placing an advanced airway device, including SGA, it is imperative to ensure the device is appropriately positioned, so that ventilations are being delivered effectively​
  • Not confirming placement can cause death or prevent ROSC, due to hypoxia ​
• Documentation is also imperative, as this is how we know you verified placement of the device​

Therefore

Paramedics must document placement confirmation of SGA by either primary or secondary methods on the ACR.

Summary: SGA Confirmation​

• When placing an advanced airway device (including SGA) it is imperative to ensure the device is appropriately positioned, so that ventilations are being delivered effectively​
• Confirmation of placement may occur by primary (preferred) or minimum 2 secondary methods​
  • Primary: Waveform capnography​
  • Secondary: ​
    • Chest auscultation​
    • Chest rise and fall​
    • Non-waveform capnography​
• Documentation is how we know you verified placement of the device​
  • Therefore, paramedics must document placement confirmation of SGA by either primary or secondary methods on the ACR

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