Airway & Breathing

What This Equipment Is Used For

Airway and breathing equipment is used to assist or maintain a patient’s airway and support effective breathing. This may include opening the airway, delivering oxygen, or supporting ventilation during medical emergencies.

In trauma and medical response, airway compromise is a serious risk. Proper airway equipment allows trained responders to intervene early, stabilise the patient, and support breathing until advanced care is available.

Who This Equipment Is For

Airway and breathing equipment is used by trained first aiders, emergency responders, paramedics, and medical professionals.

It is commonly found in trauma kits, medical bags, ambulances, workplaces with higher medical risk, and training environments. If your role involves responding to medical emergencies and you have appropriate training, airway equipment forms a critical part of patient care capability.

What to Look For

Selecting airway and breathing equipment should be based on training level, intended use, and compatibility with existing medical protocols.

• Intended function: Airway positioning, oxygen delivery, or ventilation support.
• Training requirements: Equipment suited to the user’s level of competency.
• Compatibility: Works with other airway or oxygen equipment in use.
• Quality and reliability: Medical-grade equipment suitable for emergency use.
• Storage and protection: Packaging that maintains hygiene and readiness.

Airway equipment should always be selected and used in line with training and clinical guidelines.

Common Mistakes We See

A common mistake is carrying airway equipment without appropriate training, which can create risk rather than benefit during an emergency.

We also see equipment selected without regard for compatibility or clinical protocols, limiting effectiveness when used. Another issue is poor storage or expired components, which can compromise patient safety.

Airway and breathing equipment should be maintained, stored correctly, and used only by trained individuals.

Questions We Get Asked

What is airway and breathing equipment?

Airway and breathing equipment includes medical devices used to assist or maintain a patient’s airway and support breathing during emergencies.

Does this equipment require training?

Yes. Many airway devices should only be used by individuals with appropriate first aid or medical training.

Is airway equipment included in first aid kits?

Some basic airway items may be included in certain kits, but most airway equipment is supplied as individual components.

Who typically uses airway and breathing equipment?

It is commonly used by trained first aiders, paramedics, emergency responders, and medical professionals.

Can airway equipment be used in workplaces?

Yes. In higher-risk workplaces, airway equipment may be included as part of medical preparedness where training and protocols are in place.

How should airway equipment be stored?

Airway equipment should be stored in clean, protected packaging and checked regularly to ensure readiness.