The safe and evidenced-base use of airways in the intensive care setting receives a relative lack of attention when compared with ventilation or circulation

Critically ill patients have more difficult airways but less resources-human and equipment than elective anaesthetic patients

Airway mangement (suctioning, tracheostomy care/weaning) receives less attention within critical care workflow

Patients with tracheostomies will require ongoing resource even after discharge from critical care and are recognised as having more risk associated with transfer of care

Decisions taken in relation to airway management during a period of supportive care can affect patients for the rest of their lives and airways are not benign interventions

The relative contribution of artificial airways to work of breathing is poorly understood both during ventilation and at the time of spontaneous breathing trials

The inability to communicate, drink & eat when a patient has an ETT or tracheostomy are major issues for patients and a driver for delirium

Adverse events in relation to ICU airways are under reported