'Win with your chin': an alternative to the 'sniffing position' analogy for teaching optimal head-positioning with intubation.

摘要

Airway patency and airway protection are essential parts of resuscitation. Acute care practitioners understand the importance of optimal head position in order to align the three airway axes prior to intubation attempts. As such, we are commonly expected to teach airway positioning, and have traditionally used the analogy of the "sniffing position". In contrast, I have had far more success using the analogy of "winning a running race with your chin". This letter is offered to outline an alternative teaching method that others may find applicable.