Which of the following is listed as an ETT induction medication?

• A. ETOMIDATE 0.3 mg/kg IV/IO, max dose 30 mg
• B. FENTANYL 2 mcg/kg IV
• C. MIDAZOLAM 0.1 mg/kg IN/IV/IO/IM, max 10 mg
• D. PROP OFOL 1 mg/kg IV

Answer: (A)

In rapid sequence intubation, you want a hypnotic that acts quickly with minimal disruption to cardiovascular function. Etomidate fits this role well, which is why it’s listed as the ETT induction medication. Its dose of 0.3 mg/kg IV/IO with a max of 30 mg provides rapid unconsciousness within about 30–60 seconds and, importantly, has little effect on blood pressure and heart rate compared with other induction agents. This stability is especially valuable in trauma or shock where maintaining perfusion matters.

The other options are not the induction agent highlighted here. Fentanyl is an analgesic and can blunt sympathetic responses, but it does not reliably produce unconsciousness for induction. Midazolam is sedating but has slower onset and more variable effects, with potential for prolonged sedation and unpredictable hemodynamics. Propofol can be used for induction, but it commonly lowers blood pressure and can cause significant respiratory depression, making it less ideal as the primary induction agent in many EMS RSI protocols.