When should cricoid pressure not be used?

Cricoid pressure, also known as Sellick's maneuver, is used primarily during intubation to help prevent aspiration and to provide a better view of the airway. However, it is not appropriate during certain situations, and one key scenario where cricoid pressure should not be used is during cardiac arrest.

In the case of cardiac arrest, the primary focus is on performing high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and establishing effective ventilation. Applying cricoid pressure can make it more difficult to achieve adequate ventilation and can impede the process of intubation, which may be necessary once airway control is prioritized. The critical nature of cardiac arrest requires immediate and effective resuscitation efforts without the added complication of a maneuver that could complicate airway management.

During other scenarios like respiratory distress, conscious sedation, or a suspected spinal injury, cricoid pressure may have varying levels of applicability, but during cardiac arrest, the immediate life-saving measures take precedence over airway techniques that can hinder rather than help in effective resuscitation.