Immediate actions
- Check pulse/rhythm/MAP and EtCO₂ trend.
- Reduce excessive intrathoracic pressure if appropriate.
- Treat tension/auto-PEEP/RV failure/hemorrhage/sepsis as indicated.
- Review induction and sedation medications.
Rescue pathway
Hypotension after intubation
Airway-adjacent shock physiology.
Medication / vasodilationInduction, sedation, analgesia.Positive-pressure effectPreload loss, PEEP, high intrathoracic pressure.Tension / auto-PEEPPneumothorax or stacked breaths.RV / underlying shockPE, pulmonary HTN, sepsis, bleeding.
Clinical review / use limits
Authored by: Airway of the Month education team. Last reviewed: July 2026. Audience: EM learners, faculty, EMS, RT, simulation educators, and airway teams.
This is an educational cognitive-aid scaffold, not a bedside order set. Verify medications, ventilator changes, pediatric dosing, and procedures against local ED, ICU, anesthesia, pharmacy, RT, EMS, and pediatric policies.
Resources · Editorial policy · ACEP intubation policy · ARDS ventilation reference