Benefit of the SALAD Technique on CPR Quality During Intubation in Contaminated Airway

Management of airways in contaminated environments can compromise the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This study examined the effectiveness of SALAD (Suction Assisted Laryngoscopy Airway Decontamination) compared to intermittent suction in maintaining CPR quality during intubation in a simulated scenario of regurgitation. Following 2.5 hours of training in the SALAD technique, 36 emergency medicaltechnician-paramedics (EMT-Ps) were randomly assigned in equal numbers to two groups: one utilizing the SALAD technique and the other employing intermittent suction during intubation on a manikin. The manikin simulates regurgitation of gastric contents into the oropharynx during CPR. Primary outcomes assessed were CPR quality metrics, such as chest compression rate, depth, and interruption. Secondary outcomes included the success rate and time of intubation.