Utilize equipment that will help increase your chances of success. The Endotrol" tube has a ringlet near the proximal end of the ETT that, when pulled, lifts the distal tip of the ETT anteriorly to facilitate passing into the trachea.
The use of a BAAM (Beck Airway Airflow Monitor) can also assist with the spontaneously breathing patient. The BAAM attaches to the proximal end of the ETT and creates a "whistle" sound similar to that of a teakettle as the patient exhales. The louder the whistle, the closer to the trachea you are. When the whistling disappears you are in the esophagus.
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