157. What could be worse than this?

“Dr Irene is on call.” The nurse came to my side right that instant, forcing me to peel my eyes off Audrey.

Tucking the phone under my ear and shoulder, I said, “Yes?”

“Kiara, I’m right now stuck in surgery and can’t make it there in time. I’ll be sending in my assistant George and he should know what to do. In the meantime, could you please check if the airway is patent?”

I quickly hurried towards Marcus, standing behind his head. Opening his mouth, I tried to visualize his airway. I could see some soot and deposition, alarming me. “It doesn’t look good.” I mumbled on the phone.

“Alright, let’s intubate him to be on the safe side.” She said, “Can you do that?”

“Yes,” I said with hesitation. “Yes I can. I learned it just yesterday.”

“Good. Get to it and relieve his airway. George should be there by then and will know how to proceed.”

Tumbling the phone aside, I got to work. After choosing the appropriate tube, I opened his mouth to insert it inside. He was unconscious, mea