Rapid sequence induction.

Emergency tracheal intubation undertaken by Rapid sequence induction (RSI) is a fundamental component of military anaesthesia. This common emergency procedure has evolved in both civilian and military practice, since it was first described, as new drugs have become available. Current practice now differs significantly from that undertaken by the procedure’s initial advocates. This is particularly the case in the deployed military environment. As military medicine continues to improve injury survivability, RSI will be undertaken in increasingly unstable casualties, requiring a bespoke emergency induction not commonly practised in the civilian setting.