Name
DSI and RSI in the Physiologically Challenging Airway
Description

Airway management failures in the prehospital setting are often driven not by anatomy, but by physiology. Patients with severe hypoxia, shock, metabolic acidosis, or neurologic compromise may deteriorate rapidly during intubation if these factors are not anticipated and managed appropriately. This case-based session focuses on delayed sequence intubation (DSI) and rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in physiologically unstable patients. Through real-world EMS scenarios, participants will explore patient selection, pre-intubation optimization, medication choice, and sequencing strategies designed to minimize peri-intubation hypoxia, hypotension, and cardiac arrest. Emphasis is placed on applying physiologic principles to guide airway decisions rather than relying solely on algorithms or checklists.

NYS CME: All Levels - Core - Respiratory

Speakers
William Heuser, Northwell Health/Hicksville Fire DepartmentCritical Care Flight ParamedicDr. William Heuser is a triple board-certified clinical pharmacist in emergency medicine, critical care, and nutrition support, as well as a critical care flight paramedic with extensive experience across prehospital, transport, and hospital-based high-acuity care. He currently serves as the Director of Basic Science Education, overseeing foundational courses including clinical pharmacology and physiology, where he emphasizes the integration of core science with real-world clinical decision-making. Dr. Heuser’s multifaceted background uniquely bridges the gap between physiology, pharmacology, and bedside application. In addition to his educational leadership, he is an active researcher in resuscitative cardiac arrest, with a particular interest in post-ROSC care, hemodynamics, and neurologic outcomes. His combined experience in critical care transport, emergency medicine, and academic instruction allows him to translate complex concepts into practical strategies relevant to both field and ICU environments. A passionate educator, Dr. Heuser is a frequent keynote speaker and faculty member at national and regional conferences, where he lectures on advanced pharmacotherapy, resuscitation science, and critical care medicine. Known for delivering high-yield, practice-changing education, he is widely regarded as a sought-after speaker and consultant across disciplines.William Heuser
Date & Time
Friday, November 13, 2026, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM