Endotracheal intubation in the prehospital phase of emergency medical care.

One hundred seventy-eight endotracheal intubations by paramedics were reviewed prospectively during a nine-month period; 149 patients (83.7%) had medical conditions, and 29 (16.2%) had trauma. The endotracheal tube was successfully placed in 172 (96.6%); in four patients (2.2%), attempts were unsuccessful, and in two patients (1.1%), the attempt was aborted. There were no incidences of reported complications. We conclude that endotracheal intubation can be accomplished successfully outside the hospital by paramedical personnel. Comprehensive training and continuous medical control of paramedics' activities seem to be essential requirements for its success.