Instructions for How to Use a Laryngoscope

A laryngoscope is an instrument used by emergency personnel to introduce a breathing tube into an unconscious person. Its use is a trained skill that is a life saving measure. Successful introduction of a breathing tube would enable the caregiver to assist or control the breathing of a severely hurt person at the scene of an accident. It may also be necessary to use this method for a person with a severe breathing problem such as asthma.

Things You'll Need

• Laryngoscope handle
• Laryngoscope blade
• Breathing tube
• Tape

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Instructions

• 1

  Check the equipment to see that you have the parts necessary to assemble a laryngoscope. The laryngoscope consists of two parts: The handle of the laryngoscope and the blade of the laryngoscope.

• 2

  Assembled laryngoscope

  Assemble the laryngoscope. Place the blade of the laryngoscope over the pin that is in the handle of the scope and firmly snap the two parts in place. A light should come on at the end of the blade of the laryngoscope when you fully extend the blade.

• 3

  Place the blade in the person's mouth from the right side of the tongue and move the tongue slightly toward the left.

• 4

  Advance the blade slowly into the back of the person's mouth until you see the person's epiglottis. The epiglottis is the structure that covers the opening into the trachea, commonly called the windpipe.

• 5

  Introduce the breathing tube through the vocal cords into the trachea.
  Secure the breathing tube with tape.