The results of a large multi centre RCT published a few days ago may help settle some arguments about whether a bougie or stylet is better when intubating. And the good news is that (if you are adequately trained in their use) you get a very similar success rate with either – well at least if you are a registrar.
Our airway poll indicates that about 80% use a bougie routinely, 10% use a stylet, and 10% don’t use either routinely.
My personal preference is to use a stylet routinely and a bougie in head/neck trauma or when assessment of the airway indicates that neck movement is significantly restricted. I suggest you need to be comfortable with using either to have the best outcomes for the patient.
Driver BE, Semler MW, Self WH, et al. Effect of Use of a Bougie vs Endotracheal Tube With Stylet on Successful Intubation on the First Attempt Among Critically Ill Patients Undergoing Tracheal Intubation: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. Published online December 08, 2021. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.22002