Rapid sequence induction kit: Overview, Uses and Top Manufacturer Company

Introduction

A Rapid sequence induction kit is a standardized set of airway, ventilation, vascular access, medication-preparation, and confirmation tools designed to support rapid sequence induction (RSI) and tracheal intubation in time-critical situations. In many hospitals it is packaged as a ready-to-open procedural kit; in others it is an internally assembled “RSI tray” or “airway pack” stored on an airway cart.

RSI matters operationally because it brings together multiple moving parts—people, drugs, and medical equipment—into a single high-risk workflow where delays, missing items, labeling errors, and communication breakdowns can cause harm. A well-designed kit supports standardization, reduces the chance of omitted steps, and can improve readiness across emergency departments (EDs), intensive care units (ICUs), operating rooms (ORs), and prehospital services.

This article explains what a Rapid sequence induction kit is, when it is typically used, how teams operate it safely, what “outputs” clinicians interpret during and after RSI, how to troubleshoot common problems, and how infection control and cleaning are usually handled. It also includes a practical overview for procurement and biomedical engineering teams, plus a country-by-country global market snapshot focused on demand drivers and service ecosystems.

What is Rapid sequence induction kit and why do we use it?

Clear definition and purpose

Rapid sequence induction (RSI) is a structured approach to inducing anesthesia and facilitating tracheal intubation quickly, commonly using an induction agent followed by a neuromuscular blocking agent (paralytic), with the goal of securing the airway while minimizing delays and reducing the chance of aspiration in selected patients. A Rapid sequence induction kit is the physical “bundle” that supports this process.

Unlike a single standalone clinical device, a Rapid sequence induction kit is usually a system-of-systems: it may combine disposable supplies (e.g., syringes, suction catheters), reusable hospital equipment (e.g., laryngoscope handles, video laryngoscopes), and workflow tools (e.g., checklists, labels). Contents and configuration vary by manufacturer and frequently vary by facility, especially where kits are assembled by central supply or a procedure-pack vendor.

What is typically inside a Rapid sequence induction kit?

Common categories (not a universal list):

• Airway tools
• Endotracheal tubes (ETTs) in common sizes (adult and/or pediatric, depending on location)
• Stylet and/or bougie (introducer)
• Oropharyngeal and/or nasopharyngeal airways
• Supraglottic airway (e.g., laryngeal mask airway) as backup (often stored nearby rather than inside the pack)

• Laryngoscope blades (direct) and/or video laryngoscope components (often separate, reusable inventory)

• Ventilation and oxygenation

• Bag-valve-mask (BVM) or BVM accessories (often stored on the airway cart)
• Oxygen tubing/adapters (depending on local setup)

• PEEP valve (positive end-expiratory pressure) if the service uses one (availability varies)

• Suction

• Yankauer suction tip and suction tubing

• Flexible suction catheter(s)

• Medication preparation and safety

• Syringes and needles or blunt fill devices
• Labels for syringes (ideally standardized by local medication-safety policy)
• Saline flushes (varies by facility)

• A checklist or cognitive aid (paper card or laminated sheet)

• Confirmation and securing

• End-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO₂) detector (colorimetric) or capnography sampling line (if paired with a monitor)
• Tube-securing device or tape
• Bite block (varies)

• Cuff inflation syringe; cuff pressure manometer may be separate

• Other supporting supplies

• PPE (personal protective equipment) items for aerosol-generating procedures (often stored separately for size/fit reasons)
• Lubricant, gauze, antiseptic wipes (varies)

Medication vials or ampoules may be included in some systems, but in many hospitals medications are stored and issued under pharmacy control with controlled-substance and temperature requirements. In these settings, the kit is designed to support safe preparation rather than to serve as a medication container.

Common clinical settings

A Rapid sequence induction kit is most often used where urgent airway control may be needed:

• Emergency department (ED): trauma, altered mental status, respiratory failure, sepsis, poisoning/overdose (case mix varies by region)
• Intensive care unit (ICU): deteriorating respiratory status, airway protection, procedures requiring airway control
• Operating room (OR): emergency cases, rapid-response intubations outside scheduled workflows
• Prehospital and retrieval services: helicopter EMS, critical care transport, remote clinics with trained teams
• Procedural areas: interventional radiology, endoscopy suites, or wards when rapid deterioration occurs

Key benefits in patient care and workflow

From a clinical operations perspective, the “why” is often less about a single piece of technology and more about reliability under pressure:

• Standardization reduces variability: consistent layout and content supports muscle memory and team coordination.
• Fewer missing items: sealed packs can reduce scavenging across rooms and reduce time-to-intubation setup.
• Cognitive load reduction: checklists, labels, and standardized drug-prep supplies support safer task execution.
• Inventory control: kit-based stocking simplifies counting, auditing, and restocking, especially on mobile airway carts.
• Training alignment: simulation and competency assessments can be built around the same kit structure used at the bedside.

Plain-language “mechanism of action”: how it functions

A Rapid sequence induction kit “works” by ensuring the team has the right tools in the right order to:

1. Prepare the patient and environment (oxygen, suction, monitors).
2. Prepare and label medications used for induction and paralysis (as per local protocol).
3. Perform laryngoscopy and place an endotracheal tube.
4. Confirm placement (commonly with capnography) and secure the tube.
5. Transition to ventilation and ongoing sedation/analgesia planning.

The kit is essentially a human-factors tool: it reduces friction in a complex workflow where omissions are common.

How medical students and trainees encounter the kit

Medical students typically first see RSI as part of:

• Airway teaching sessions (direct and video laryngoscopy skills labs)
• Simulation training (team roles, checklists, “cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate” drills)
• Clinical rotations in anesthesia, emergency medicine, and critical care

For trainees, the kit becomes a practical anchor for learning structured preparation: “Where is the suction? Where is the EtCO₂ detector? Where do we place labeled syringes?” It also introduces systems thinking—how procurement, storage, expiration control, and maintenance affect bedside safety.

When should I use Rapid sequence induction kit (and when should I not)?

Appropriate use cases (general)

A Rapid sequence induction kit is typically selected when a trained clinical team anticipates the need for rapid, controlled airway management with minimal delays and a standardized setup. Situations may include:

• Emergency airway management in the ED or ICU where time to secure the airway is critical
• Patients at increased risk of aspiration where local protocols favor an RSI-style approach
• Rapid deterioration on wards where the response team brings a standardized kit
• Prehospital or transport contexts where space is limited and standardized packaging improves readiness

Exact indications depend on clinician assessment, local guidelines, scope of practice, and available support.

Situations where it may not be suitable

A Rapid sequence induction kit is not a substitute for clinical judgment or for specialized equipment when complexity is anticipated. It may be less suitable when:

• A difficult airway is strongly anticipated and a different approach is planned (e.g., awake techniques or advanced airway strategies)
• The clinician team lacks appropriate training, supervision, or backup
• Required supporting infrastructure is not available (reliable oxygen source, suction, monitoring, resuscitation equipment)
• The kit configuration does not match the patient population (e.g., pediatric needs in a kit built for adult care)
• The setting requires a different workflow (e.g., elective anesthesia with a full anesthesia workstation and pre-arranged airway setup)

Safety cautions and contraindications (general, non-clinical)

Because RSI involves high-risk medications and airway instrumentation, the kit should be used within a system that controls common hazards:

• Medication safety: wrong drug, wrong concentration, wrong route, or unlabeled syringe risks are significant in emergency airway care.
• Equipment readiness: a sealed kit does not guarantee functional laryngoscopes, batteries, suction regulators, oxygen sources, or monitoring.
• Scope and supervision: RSI should align with credentialing and supervision standards; a kit should never be used to “extend” scope.
• Local policy alignment: some facilities mandate capnography availability for intubation confirmation; if the kit cannot support this, escalation may be required.
• Resource limitations: in settings without reliable capnography, clinicians may rely on alternative confirmation strategies per local protocol, recognizing limitations.

Emphasize clinical judgment, supervision, and local protocols

This topic sits at the intersection of emergency medicine, anesthesia, and critical care. The kit enables a process, but it does not replace:

• Local airway algorithms
• Supervision and escalation pathways
• Competency-based training and credentialing
• Pharmacy and medication-governance requirements
• Biomedical engineering support for reusable medical equipment

Use in real patients should be guided by qualified clinicians following facility-approved protocols and manufacturer instructions for use (IFU) for each included device.

What do I need before starting?

Required setup, environment, and accessories

A Rapid sequence induction kit is most effective when the environment is prepared to support airway management end-to-end. Typical prerequisites include:

• Oxygen delivery
• Wall oxygen or a full cylinder with compatible regulator and connectors

• Backup oxygen source when feasible (policy-dependent)

• Suction

• Wall suction or portable suction device

• Correct tubing and tips available and functional

• Monitoring

• Pulse oximetry (SpO₂)
• Non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) or invasive arterial monitoring (as applicable)
• Electrocardiography (ECG)

• Capnography (EtCO₂) is widely used for tube confirmation and ongoing monitoring where available

• Ventilation equipment

• BVM with appropriately sized mask
• Filter(s) per infection prevention policy (especially for respiratory pathogens)

• Ventilator readiness if the patient will be mechanically ventilated

• Resuscitation readiness

• Defibrillator availability and access to emergency drugs as per facility policy

• A plan for hemodynamic support if needed (varies by protocol)

• Backup airway pathway

• A difficult-airway cart and/or surgical airway equipment accessible within a defined response time (facility dependent)

Training and competency expectations

Because a Rapid sequence induction kit supports a complex and hazardous workflow, hospitals typically define:

• Who may perform RSI (credentialed clinicians, scope-of-practice rules)
• Competency requirements (simulation frequency, supervised cases, skills sign-off)
• Team role expectations (airway operator, medication nurse, monitor/ventilation support, team leader)
• Emergency escalation triggers (when to call anesthesia, ENT, surgery, or critical care support)

For learners, “knowing the kit” includes knowing where items are stored, how to check them, and how to communicate during high-stress setup.

Pre-use checks and documentation

A standardized kit helps, but it should not be opened and used without basic checks. Common pre-use checks include:

• Packaging integrity
• Seal intact, packaging dry and undamaged

• Tamper-evident features intact if used

• Expiration and lot control

• Expiry date checked for kit and time-sensitive consumables

• Lot numbers or batch tracking documented if required (policy varies)

• Function checks on reusable components

• Laryngoscope light source or video system powers on (battery charge and spare batteries)
• Suction works and the correct tubing is attached
• BVM valves function and mask seal is appropriate

• Capnography module and sampling line function (where used)

• Medication-prep safety

• Correct syringes, labels, and flushes available
• A second-check process for high-risk medications where policy supports it

Documentation expectations vary, but many services document the kit’s use to trigger restocking and to support quality reviews after airway events.

Operational prerequisites: commissioning, maintenance readiness, consumables, and policies

For hospital operations leaders, a Rapid sequence induction kit is a program, not just a purchase. Key operational prerequisites include:

• Commissioning
• Agreeing on standardized contents for the intended clinical areas (ED vs ICU vs transport)
• Aligning kit contents with airway algorithms and medication policies

• Testing usability with multidisciplinary simulation before full rollout (human factors)

• Maintenance readiness

• Asset tagging and preventive maintenance for reusable devices (video laryngoscope screens, chargers, suction units)
• Battery management and spare parts planning

• Service contracts and turnaround times (varies by manufacturer and country)

• Consumables

• Reliable supply of tubes, bougies, suction catheters, filters, and labels

• Shelf-life management to minimize waste, especially for low-use areas

• Policies and governance

• Medication governance (controlled drug handling, storage temperature, auditing)
• Infection prevention protocols for airway equipment and high-touch surfaces
• Incident reporting pathways for near-misses and equipment failures

Roles and responsibilities (clinician vs. biomedical engineering vs. procurement)

A Rapid sequence induction kit touches multiple departments:

• Clinicians (ED/ICU/anesthesia)
• Define clinical requirements and acceptable substitutions

• Lead training, competency expectations, and audit of airway outcomes

• Nursing and respiratory therapy (where present)

• Own bedside setup workflows and restocking triggers

• Enforce labeling and medication-safety practices

• Biomedical engineering / clinical engineering

• Maintain reusable airway and monitoring equipment
• Manage inspection schedules, batteries, repairs, and loaner devices

• Support investigations when device failure is suspected

• Procurement and supply chain

• Vendor selection, contracting, and supply continuity planning
• Product standardization decisions and cost-of-ownership assessments

• Managing backorders and approved substitutes

• Pharmacy

• Controls medication access, concentrations, labeling standards, and storage rules
• Supports safety alerts and formulary changes affecting RSI practice

In well-run systems, all groups agree on a single goal: predictable, safe readiness for high-stakes airway care.

How do I use it correctly (basic operation)?

The exact workflow varies by model and local protocol, but the value of a Rapid sequence induction kit is that it supports a repeatable sequence. The outline below is educational and intentionally general.

A commonly used step-by-step workflow (team-based)

1. Call for the right help early – Escalation is a safety tool, not a failure. – Many institutions pre-alert anesthesia/ICU support for high-risk airways.

2. Assign roles and verbalize the plan – Airway operator, team leader, medication preparation, monitoring/ventilation support. – State “Plan A/Plan B/Plan C” and what triggers a switch.

3. Bring the kit and the backup equipment – Open the Rapid sequence induction kit in a clean area with space to lay out items. – Confirm a backup airway device and a rescue plan are immediately available.

4. Prepare the environment – Ensure oxygen source and suction are functional. – Position the patient and bed for airway access (facility practice varies). – Apply monitoring and confirm readings are displayed and alarms are enabled.

5. Lay out equipment in a standardized way – Many teams use a left-to-right “sequence layout” (preoxygenation → laryngoscopy → tube → confirmation → securing). – Keep sharps management in mind; designate a safe area for used needles.

6. Check key equipment function – Laryngoscope light/video screen on. – Endotracheal tube cuff inflates and holds. – Suction tip works at the bedside. – Capnography detection method is ready (colorimetric detector or waveform capnography).

7. Prepare medications and label syringes – Prepare induction and neuromuscular blockade medications according to local protocol. – Label every syringe immediately; avoid “unlabeled syringe on the bed” scenarios. – Use read-backs or second checks where policy supports them.

8. Preoxygenation and airway preparation – Use the facility’s oxygenation strategy and aspiration-risk precautions. – Consider adjuncts used by the service (e.g., nasal cannula for apneic oxygenation), recognizing practice varies.

9. Induction, paralysis, and intubation attempt – The airway operator proceeds according to local RSI protocol. – Limit interruptions and keep communication concise (“tube passing,” “stop ventilation,” “confirm CO₂,” etc.).

10. Confirm airway placement and secure – Confirmation typically prioritizes capnography where available, alongside clinical assessment. – Secure the tube with a reliable method and document depth/position per policy.

11. Transition to ongoing ventilation and post-intubation care – Connect to ventilator or continue BVM ventilation as appropriate. – Maintain sedation/analgesia plans and continue close monitoring.

Setup, calibration, and operation (what is commonly universal)

A Rapid sequence induction kit itself usually does not require calibration, but the associated hospital equipment often does:

• Capnography modules may require proper sampling line connection and filter changes.
• Video laryngoscopes require battery readiness, screen integrity, and compatible blades.
• Suction devices require functional checks and correct canister/tubing setup.
• Cuff pressure manometers (if used) should be checked for basic function and cleanliness.

Universal “good practice” steps across most systems include: checking expiry dates, checking function before induction, labeling, confirming tube placement, and documenting the event.

Typical “settings” and what they generally mean

RSI is supported by devices that have adjustable parameters. Common examples include:

• Suction regulator level: set to a facility-accepted level that clears secretions without damaging tissues (exact ranges are policy-dependent).
• Oxygen flow and delivery method: adjusted to maximize oxygenation according to local protocol and equipment.
• Monitor alarm limits: configured to patient context and institutional standards (avoid silent or disabled alarms).
• Ventilator mode and alarms: set by trained staff; the goal is safe ventilation with appropriate alarms enabled.

Because these settings are highly patient- and equipment-specific, clinicians follow local protocols and device IFUs rather than relying on a universal number.

How do I keep the patient safe?

Patient safety in RSI is largely about anticipation, monitoring, and disciplined teamwork. A Rapid sequence induction kit supports safety, but only if it is embedded in a broader safety system.

Safety practices and monitoring (high-level)

Common safety elements include:

• Continuous monitoring: SpO₂, ECG, blood pressure, and (where available) capnography during and after intubation.
• Backup plans: a clear escalation pathway for difficult laryngoscopy or failed intubation.
• Oxygenation focus: many complications arise from inadequate oxygenation before or during attempts.
• Hemodynamic awareness: induction and positive-pressure ventilation can change blood pressure; teams plan for monitoring and support per protocol.
• Post-intubation sedation/analgesia continuity: ensuring the patient receives appropriate ongoing management after paralysis, per local practice.

This is informational only; clinical decisions should be made by trained clinicians following approved protocols.

Alarm handling and human factors

Alarms are only useful when teams agree how to respond:

• Avoid alarm fatigue by setting meaningful limits and ensuring a clear person is responsible for monitoring.
• Use closed-loop communication (“SpO₂ falling to X,” “Acknowledged,” “Action taken”) to prevent diffusion of responsibility.
• Limit noise and nonessential conversation during critical steps.
• Use standardized layout: place confirmation tools (EtCO₂ detector/sampling line) where they are immediately reachable.

Human factors issues frequently seen in airway events include unlabeled syringes, missing suction, dead batteries, and failure to confirm tube placement using the facility’s standard method.

Follow facility protocols and manufacturer guidance

A Rapid sequence induction kit often includes devices from multiple manufacturers. Safe use depends on:

• Device IFUs for laryngoscope blades/handles, video laryngoscope systems, suction equipment, and any single-use airway adjuncts.
• Facility airway policies for confirmation standards (e.g., waveform capnography where available), documentation, and post-intubation monitoring.
• Medication-safety policies for labeling, independent double checks, storage, and disposal.

If a kit contains substitutions (due to supply constraints), teams should be notified and trained on differences.

Risk controls that procurement and operations can build in

Administrators and operations leaders can meaningfully reduce risk by specifying:

• Standardized labels (color conventions aligned with local medication-safety policy)
• Tamper-evident packaging and clear expiry labeling
• A “minimum safe content” list (what must never be missing)
• Traceability requirements (lot/batch tracking where required)
• Restocking rules (who restocks, when, and how completeness is verified)

Labeling checks and incident reporting culture

Because RSI is high risk, strong safety cultures treat near-misses as learning opportunities:

• Report missing components, expired items, and packaging failures as safety events.
• Quarantine suspect devices and record identifiers if a device malfunction is suspected.
• Use post-event debriefs to identify system gaps (stocking, training, layout, or communication).

These system-level practices often prevent repeat errors more effectively than individual reminders.

How do I interpret the output?

A Rapid sequence induction kit does not usually generate data by itself, but RSI produces a set of clinical and monitoring “outputs” that teams interpret to confirm success and detect complications early.

Types of outputs/readings commonly used during RSI

• Waveform capnography (EtCO₂): often used for confirmation of tracheal tube placement and ongoing ventilation monitoring.
• Colorimetric CO₂ detectors: a qualitative alternative where waveform capnography is not available.
• Pulse oximetry (SpO₂): oxygenation trend, recognizing it may lag behind true physiologic changes.
• Blood pressure and heart rate: detect hemodynamic changes during induction and post-intubation.
• Ventilator parameters (if connected): pressure/volume trends and alarms can indicate leaks, obstruction, or disconnection.
• Clinical signs: chest rise, condensation in the tube, breath sounds, and tube depth markings (used alongside monitoring).

How clinicians typically interpret them (general)

Teams often seek converging evidence rather than relying on a single sign. For example:

• A sustained capnography waveform plus stable oxygenation and appropriate clinical exam findings is generally more reassuring than any single indicator alone.
• Abrupt loss of capnography waveform, sudden ventilator alarms, or rapid desaturation triggers immediate reassessment for dislodgement, obstruction, equipment disconnection, or physiologic collapse.

Interpretation is context-dependent; protocols define what constitutes adequate confirmation.

Common pitfalls and limitations

• Low perfusion states (e.g., severe shock or cardiac arrest) can reduce exhaled CO₂ and make capnography harder to interpret.
• Artifact and sampling problems can occur if the sampling line is kinked, occluded by secretions, or connected incorrectly.
• SpO₂ lag can delay recognition of deterioration, especially if preoxygenation was effective initially.
• Misleading clinical signs can occur (e.g., chest movement may reflect stomach inflation).

Emphasize artifacts, false positives/negatives, and clinical correlation

No monitoring method is perfect. Good practice is to:

• Verify equipment setup (sampling line, connectors, detector orientation).
• Use multiple confirmation methods as required by local policy.
• Escalate early when signals conflict or when the patient’s condition changes unexpectedly.

What if something goes wrong?

When problems occur during RSI, the safest responses are typically structured, team-based, and documented. The checklist below focuses on systematic troubleshooting of kit- and equipment-related issues, not on individualized medical decision-making.

A practical troubleshooting checklist

If you are still preparing (before induction):

• Confirm oxygen source is connected and flowing.
• Confirm suction is on and the correct tubing/tip is attached.
• Check laryngoscope light or video system power; replace batteries or swap devices if needed.
• Check the endotracheal tube cuff inflates and the syringe is available.
• Confirm capnography method is ready (detector present or sampling line connected).
• Verify key consumables are not expired and packaging is intact.
• Reconcile medication-prep supplies: correct syringes, labels, and flushes available.

If the kit is incomplete or compromised:

• Treat missing or expired critical items as a reason to pause and obtain replacements.
• Use the facility’s backup airway cart or standardized “airway top-up” box if available.
• Document the kit issue and remove that lot/batch from service if repeated.

If equipment fails during use:

• Switch to backup devices (e.g., alternate laryngoscope, BVM).
• Replace suspected faulty consumables (e.g., sampling line).
• Confirm connections (oxygen, suction, ventilation circuit).

When to stop use

Stop and reassess when:

• Critical components are missing or unusable and safe substitution is not immediately available.
• Monitoring required by local policy is not available or fails.
• There is a suspected device defect that could recur (e.g., repeated power failure).

In many systems, the safest course is to escalate to experienced airway support when predefined triggers occur.

When to escalate to biomedical engineering or the manufacturer

Escalate beyond the bedside team when:

• A reusable device malfunctions (video laryngoscope, monitor module, suction device).
• A pattern of failures appears (multiple kits missing the same item, packaging seal defects).
• A consumable appears counterfeit, mislabeled, or inconsistently manufactured.

Biomedical engineering typically handles device quarantine, functional testing, and repair coordination. The manufacturer or supplier may be involved for investigation and corrective action; the process and timelines vary by manufacturer and region.

Documentation and safety reporting expectations (general)

After any adverse event or near-miss:

• Record what happened, what equipment was used, and what was missing or failed.
• Preserve packaging and device identifiers if they may be needed for investigation.
• Use the facility incident reporting system and notify supply chain or clinical engineering as appropriate.
• Trigger restocking and kit replacement to restore readiness for the next emergency.

Infection control and cleaning of Rapid sequence induction kit

A Rapid sequence induction kit is often used during aerosol-generating procedures and exposure to saliva, blood, and respiratory secretions. Infection prevention requires clear separation of single-use disposables and reusable hospital equipment, with cleaning steps based on the item’s risk category and manufacturer IFU.

Cleaning principles

• Assume contamination after airway use and handle equipment accordingly.
• Dispose of single-use items promptly in appropriate waste streams.
• Segregate reusable items into closed containers or designated bins for transport to decontamination.
• Avoid “bench contamination”: do not place contaminated items on clean work surfaces used for medication preparation.

Disinfection vs. sterilization (general)

• Cleaning removes visible soil; it is a prerequisite for disinfection or sterilization.
• Disinfection reduces microbial load; the level (low/intermediate/high) depends on the item and exposure risk.
• Sterilization eliminates microorganisms, including spores, and is used for items that enter sterile body sites.

Exact requirements depend on device classification, local regulations, and IFU.

High-touch points to focus on

Even when disposables are used, high-touch surfaces frequently include:

• Laryngoscope handle and any reusable blade components
• Video laryngoscope screen, handle, and cable/charger contacts
• BVM exterior surfaces and mask (if reusable)
• Suction regulator knobs, portable suction handles
• Airway cart drawers, handles, and checklists/clipboards

Example cleaning workflow (non-brand-specific)

1. Don PPE per policy and perform hand hygiene.
2. Dispose of single-use airway adjuncts, suction tips, and contaminated packaging.
3. Place reusable components in designated containers for reprocessing (do not “wipe and reuse” unless IFU allows).
4. Wipe down exposed surfaces on reusable equipment using facility-approved disinfectant and contact time.
5. Send laryngoscope blades or other reprocessable parts to sterile processing as required.
6. Clean and disinfect the airway cart work surface and high-touch drawer handles.
7. Restock with a new Rapid sequence induction kit and document restocking completion.

Follow the manufacturer IFU and facility policy

Different materials (plastics, optics, screens) can be damaged by certain disinfectants. Always follow:

• Device IFU for compatible disinfectants and reprocessing steps
• Facility infection prevention policy for contact times and approved products
• Any regional requirements for single-use device restrictions (varies by jurisdiction)

Medical Device Companies & OEMs

Manufacturer vs. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

A manufacturer is the company that markets a finished medical device under its own name and is typically responsible for regulatory compliance, labeling, post-market surveillance, and customer support.

An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) produces components or finished devices that may be rebranded or integrated into another company’s product. In airway management, OEM relationships can affect:

• Consistency of design and materials
• Availability of spare parts
• Service and warranty pathways
• Long-term compatibility (e.g., blades and handles, batteries, connectors)

For a Rapid sequence induction kit, OEM relationships matter because the kit may combine devices from multiple sources, and “who supports what” can become unclear during failures.

How OEM relationships impact quality, support, and service

• A kit assembler may source components from different OEMs based on cost and availability; this can improve flexibility but complicate standardization.
• Service documentation and IFUs may be split across multiple companies, increasing training burden.
• Procurement teams often ask for clear statements on warranty, service turnaround time, and responsibility boundaries—especially for reusable equipment.

Top 5 World Best Medical Device Companies / Manufacturers

example industry leaders (not a ranking)

1. Medtronic
   Medtronic is a large global medical device manufacturer with a broad portfolio that can intersect with airway management and perioperative/critical care workflows. Depending on region and product lines, its offerings may include ventilation-related products and airway consumables. Global presence and distributor networks can support multi-site standardization, though local availability varies.

2. Dräger
   Dräger is widely recognized for anesthesia and critical care equipment, including ventilators and patient monitoring that commonly sit alongside RSI workflows. In many hospitals, Dräger systems integrate capnography and ventilation management used immediately after intubation. Service models and configurations differ by country, and procurement often evaluates local technical support capacity.

3. Teleflex
   Teleflex is known for various single-use and procedural devices, including categories relevant to airway and vascular access in emergency settings. Many facilities encounter Teleflex-branded consumables through standardized procedure packs and airway-related supplies. Product availability, packaging configurations, and regional catalog differences vary by market.

4. Ambu
   Ambu is associated with single-use endoscopy and airway management products in many regions, and it is also known for ventilation accessories such as resuscitators in some markets. Single-use strategies can simplify infection control and reduce reprocessing burdens, but cost and supply continuity are major considerations. Exact fit within a Rapid sequence induction kit depends on local preferences and compatibility requirements.

5. Philips
   Philips is a major player in patient monitoring in many healthcare systems, including monitoring functions that are central during and after RSI (e.g., ECG, SpO₂, and capnography where available and configured). Monitoring ecosystems influence how teams confirm tube placement and detect early deterioration. Support quality is often driven by local service partners and contract structures, which vary by country.

Vendors, Suppliers, and Distributors

Role differences: vendor vs. supplier vs. distributor

These terms are often used interchangeably, but in hospital operations they can imply different responsibilities:

• Vendor: the entity you contract with to purchase goods/services; may be a manufacturer, distributor, or reseller.
• Supplier: any organization providing products; could include local companies sourcing from multiple manufacturers.
• Distributor: specializes in logistics—warehousing, order fulfillment, delivery, and sometimes kitting or custom procedure packs.

For Rapid sequence induction kit procurement, the distributor’s ability to manage expiration dates, substitutions, backorders, and rapid replenishment can be as important as the product itself.

Top 5 World Best Vendors / Suppliers / Distributors

example global distributors (not a ranking)

1. McKesson
   McKesson is a large healthcare distribution company in markets where it operates, supporting hospitals with broad catalog access and logistics services. For procedure-based packs and airway-related consumables, distributors like this may help with contract consolidation and inventory programs. Availability and specific service offerings vary by country and business unit.

2. Cardinal Health
   Cardinal Health is commonly associated with medical-surgical distribution and supply chain services in regions where it has a footprint. Hospitals may use such distributors for high-volume consumables and standardized stocking programs. The ability to support procedure packs and consistent substitutions depends on local operations and contracted product lists.

3. Medline
   Medline is known for medical-surgical supplies and, in some markets, custom packs that can resemble or incorporate elements of an RSI kit workflow. Standardization and packaging design support can be helpful when facilities want consistent layouts across departments. Reach and service capacity vary globally, often relying on regional subsidiaries and partners.

4. Owens & Minor
   Owens & Minor is a distribution and logistics organization in markets where it operates, often supporting hospitals with inventory management and supply chain services. For airway-related consumables, a key differentiator is reliability during supply disruptions and clarity around approved alternatives. Service depth and product access vary by region.

5. Henry Schein
   Henry Schein operates as a healthcare distributor with a strong presence in certain segments and geographies. Depending on the country, it may supply consumables, small equipment, and practice/hospital essentials that can overlap with kit components. Buyer profiles and service models differ significantly across regions and sectors.

Global Market Snapshot by Country

India

Demand for Rapid sequence induction kit configurations in India is driven by growth in tertiary hospitals, expanding emergency and critical care services, and increasing focus on standardization in busy urban centers. Import dependence is common for certain airway devices and monitoring components, while local manufacturing may cover parts of the consumable ecosystem. Service capacity and training access can differ widely between metropolitan hospitals and rural facilities.

China

China’s market is shaped by large hospital systems, expanding ICU capacity, and a strong domestic manufacturing base for many categories of medical equipment. High-end monitoring, video laryngoscopy, and branded consumables may still rely partly on imports depending on specifications and hospital tier. Urban hospitals generally have stronger service and training ecosystems than smaller county-level facilities.

United States

In the United States, Rapid sequence induction kit use is influenced by mature emergency medicine and critical care systems, strong emphasis on documentation and medication safety, and widespread availability of advanced monitoring. Many hospitals standardize airway carts and procedure packs to reduce variability across sites. Procurement decisions often balance clinician preference, group purchasing contracts, and supply resilience.

Indonesia

Indonesia’s demand is driven by growing hospital infrastructure in major cities and the need to support emergency airway management across geographically dispersed islands. Import dependence can affect availability and pricing of advanced airway and monitoring equipment, while consumables may be sourced through mixed local and imported channels. Service and training capacity often concentrate in urban referral centers.

Pakistan

Pakistan’s market is shaped by a mix of public and private healthcare expansion, with major tertiary centers more likely to standardize airway workflows and stock dedicated kits. Import dependence is common for branded airway devices and monitors, and supply continuity can be affected by procurement cycles and distribution reach. Rural and smaller facilities may rely on simplified setups and locally assembled packs.

Nigeria

Nigeria’s demand is influenced by expanding private hospitals, trauma and emergency care needs, and growing critical care awareness in urban centers. Many advanced components (capnography modules, video laryngoscopes) may be import-dependent, with service support varying by supplier presence. Access gaps between urban and rural facilities can be significant, affecting how comprehensive kits can be.

Brazil

Brazil combines a sizable healthcare system with both public and private sector purchasing, and kit standardization often aligns with hospital accreditation and safety programs. Domestic production may support some consumables, while specialized airway and monitoring components may still be sourced internationally depending on specifications. Distributor networks and service support are typically stronger in major cities than remote regions.

Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s demand is driven by increasing ICU and emergency capacity in urban hospitals and a strong need for cost-effective standardization. Import dependence for many airway devices and monitors is common, and procurement teams often manage variability through approved substitutions. Training and equipment availability can differ markedly between large academic centers and peripheral facilities.

Russia

Russia’s market dynamics include a large hospital network with variable modernization levels across regions. Import dependence and supply chain complexity can influence availability of certain airway and monitoring technologies, with some local production supporting basic consumables. Service ecosystems may be robust in major cities but less consistent in remote areas.

Mexico

Mexico’s demand is supported by expanding emergency and critical care services and increasing focus on standardized hospital equipment and procedure readiness. Many facilities use distributor-based procurement, and the availability of advanced monitoring and video laryngoscopy can vary by institution type and budget. Urban centers tend to have stronger service support than rural settings.

Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the market is shaped by expanding tertiary care capacity and ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency and critical care systems. Import dependence is significant for many medical devices, and availability can be affected by procurement lead times and maintenance capacity. Hospitals may prioritize durable, serviceable equipment and simplified kits that match local infrastructure.

Japan

Japan’s market reflects a high level of hospital infrastructure, mature anesthesia and critical care practice, and strong expectations for quality and reliability. Advanced monitoring and airway equipment are widely available in many institutions, with robust service networks and procurement standards. Standardization may focus on efficiency and safety within high-throughput clinical environments.

Philippines

The Philippines shows growing demand in urban hospitals for standardized airway management and better-equipped emergency and ICU services. Import dependence is common for advanced airway tools and monitoring modules, and distribution across islands can complicate replenishment. Service and training resources tend to cluster in metropolitan areas.

Egypt

Egypt’s demand is supported by large public hospitals and a growing private sector investing in emergency and critical care readiness. Import dependence for many airway and monitoring devices is typical, and procurement often balances cost constraints with clinician requirements. Urban referral centers generally have better access to service and replacement parts than peripheral facilities.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, demand is closely tied to urban hospital capacity, external funding support in some regions, and the practical realities of maintenance and consumable supply. Import dependence is high, and service ecosystems may be limited outside major cities. Facilities often emphasize robust, simplified equipment choices and clear restocking processes.

Vietnam

Vietnam’s market is driven by hospital modernization, expanding ICU services, and increasing focus on standardized emergency response workflows. Import dependence remains relevant for certain advanced airway and monitoring technologies, while domestic supply may cover parts of the consumable base. Larger cities typically have stronger distributor coverage and technical service options.

Iran

Iran’s demand reflects a large healthcare system with variable access to imported technologies depending on supply chain and regulatory conditions. Facilities may use a mix of locally produced consumables and selectively imported components for airway and monitoring needs. Service and parts availability can be a deciding factor in procurement, especially for reusable equipment.

Turkey

Turkey’s market includes strong hospital infrastructure in major cities and an active private healthcare sector alongside public hospitals. Distributor networks often play a major role in supplying airway consumables, monitors, and procedure packs, with emphasis on rapid availability and service support. Standardization initiatives are commonly linked to efficiency and quality improvement programs.

Germany

Germany’s demand is shaped by well-resourced hospitals, strong safety and documentation expectations, and consistent access to advanced monitoring and airway equipment. Procurement often focuses on total cost of ownership, service agreements, and compatibility with existing clinical device ecosystems. Training and maintenance support are generally robust across the country.

Thailand

Thailand’s market is influenced by a mix of high-capability urban hospitals and variable resources in rural areas. Import dependence for certain advanced airway and monitoring technologies is common, while consumables may be sourced through regional distribution channels. Hospitals often focus on standardization to support busy ED/ICU services and improve readiness during surges.

Key Takeaways and Practical Checklist for Rapid sequence induction kit

• Define RSI and kit purpose during onboarding.
• Standardize kit contents per clinical area.
• Keep oxygen and suction checks non-negotiable.
• Ensure capnography access where policy requires.
• Use tamper-evident, clearly labeled packaging.
• Verify kit integrity before opening.
• Check expiry dates at point of use.
• Make a “minimum safe contents” list.
• Train teams on kit layout and workflow.
• Use simulation to test human factors.
• Assign roles before opening the kit.
• Use closed-loop communication during setup.
• Label every syringe immediately.
• Separate clean prep space from contaminated zone.
• Function-check laryngoscope and backup device.
• Confirm ETT cuff integrity before use.
• Keep confirmation tools within reach.
• Plan backup airway pathway in advance.
• Store rescue airway devices nearby.
• Document kit use to trigger restocking.
• Quarantine and report suspected device failures.
• Track recurring missing-item patterns.
• Align kit design with medication governance.
• Clarify who owns restock responsibility.
• Include biomedical engineering in rollout planning.
• Asset-tag reusable components and chargers.
• Maintain batteries and spare parts locally.
• Follow IFUs for cleaning and disinfectants.
• Treat airway equipment as high contamination risk.
• Dispose of single-use items correctly.
• Debrief after airway events for learning.
• Use incident reporting for near-misses too.
• Plan for substitutions during supply disruption.
• Audit readiness with periodic spot checks.
• Consider total cost of ownership, not unit price.
• Ensure rural/remote sites have scalable kit options.

If you are looking for contributions and suggestion for this content please drop an email to contact@myhospitalnow.com