When should you reassess the effectiveness of airway placement?

Reassessing the effectiveness of airway placement immediately after placement is crucial for ensuring that the airway is secure and functioning properly. This assessment should be performed right after the airway device is inserted to confirm that the placement is correct and that there is adequate ventilation. The first few breaths should be observed to ensure they are effective, which includes checking for chest rise, presence of breath sounds, and absence of obstructions. Immediate reassessment allows for quick interventions if the airway is improperly placed, reducing the risk of complications that could arise from inadequate ventilation.

Waiting for 5 minutes to reassess would not provide timely information regarding the effectiveness of the airway. Additionally, assessing only if the patient shows signs of distress could delay necessary interventions, potentially leading to negative outcomes. Reassessing before administering medication does not directly evaluate airway effectiveness and could lead to a situation where the airway is compromised during critical treatment phases.