Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Guidelines for Elective Pediatric Fiberoptic Intubation
Published on: January 17, 2011
Rocuronium for nonemergent intubation of term and preterm infants
D M Feltman1, M G Weiss, P Nicoski
1Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA. DFeltman@northshore.org
Objective:
The aim of this study was to analyze clinical characteristics of rocuronium as premedication for nonemergent intubation in infants.
Study Design:
Preterm infants requiring nonemergent intubation were randomized to receive atropine and fentanyl with or without rocuronium. Outcomes, patient characteristics and intubator's experience were noted. Onset, duration and degree of clinical paralysis were recorded for rocuronium group and for older infants receiving rocuronium per unit protocol.
Result:
Forty-four intubations were randomized (20 rocuronium, 24 control). Groups were similar in chronological and corrected gestational age, weight and intubator's experience. Successful intubation on first attempt was achieved in 35% of intubations under rocuronium vs 8% of controls; rocuronium was the only significant variable by logistic regression (odds ratio=0.052, P=0.029). Complete paralysis was reported in 80% of 57 rocuronium intubations; onset ranged from 14 to 178 s (65.9±43.4), and duration from 1 to 60 min (16.3±13.5).
Conclusion:
Rocuronium facilitated successful intubation and provided clinical paralysis quickly in most infants.
Related Concept Videos
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants: Therapeutic Uses
Endotracheal Intubation I: Procedure
The ET tube comprises various components, including a standard adaptor to attach a bag-valve-mask (BVM) or ventilator, a cuff, a pilot balloon, and radiopaque markings along its length to measure the insertion distance. The tube sizes...
Endotracheal Intubation II: Nursing Management
1. Nursing Care of Patients Before Intubation
Before the endotracheal intubation procedure, nurses play an essential role in ensuring the process goes smoothly. The nurses must be familiar with intubation...
Depolarizing Blockers: Pharmocokinetics
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Endotracheal Tube Extubation
Procedure
Extubation removes the endotracheal tube (ETT) from the patient on mechanical ventilation. It requires a well-coordinated, multidisciplinary approach involving physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
