Checklists and acronyms are used to support quality care and as an aide to providers who do not perform these procedures in their daily practice.  In preparation for an advanced procedure (including securing an airway) using an acronym or other checklist can prove invaluable.  One such acronym is presented: the SOAP ME acronym (Suction, Oxygen, Airway, Pharmacy, Monitors/Machine, ETCO₂ and other Equipment) which has been adopted to “clean up” and organize the preparation for airway management.

The patient’s condition dictates the available time for a provider to consider all items on this checklist. 

A rapidly deteriorating patient with airway compromise may need the airway procedure first and follow-on considerations later.  If a patient can be more appropriately classified as semi-urgent (e.g., gradually worsening respiratory status) the provider will have more time to consider the algorithm and prepare.  Recommendations follow the “minimum, better, best” format.