An advanced airway refers to specialized techniques and devices used to secure and maintain an open breathing passage during serious medical emergencies and resuscitation, going beyond basic maneuvers like the head-tilt/chin-lift. Common methods include endotracheal intubation and supraglottic devices such as the laryngeal mask airway (LMA).

Advanced airways allow rescuers to deliver oxygen reliably, protect the lungs from aspiration, and provide continuous ventilation without interrupting chest compressions. Once an advanced airway is in place during cardiac arrest, rescuers typically switch to continuous compressions with ventilations delivered at a set rate rather than in cycles. These skills are paired with monitoring of oxygenation and proper airway management.

Placing and managing an advanced airway is a core competency for providers in ACLS and PALS. CPR Certification Labs delivers hands-on, AHA-aligned ACLS and PALS training that builds confidence with these techniques.