Fig. 1.  Considerations to improve the outcome of patients considered for endotracheal intubation. A time domain needs to be included in the clinical decision-making process on emergency airway management. Before intubation, the clinician should focus on using the best possible evidence for making a decision about whether or not the tracheal intubation is really indicated. Any algorithm for emergency intubation needs to take into account a local worst-case scenario. In addition, an equipment check seems to be mandatory, and a specific (locally applicable) strategy for difficult intubation should be developed. After tracheal intubation and confirmation of adequate tube position, the healthcare provider's focus should be on how to maintain cardiopulmonary stability without harming the patient by inadequate sedation or analgesia and mechanical ventilation. RSI = rapid sequence induction.