Which of the following should be prepared in advance before intubation?

Preparing intubation equipment in advance is crucial for ensuring a successful and efficient intubation process. Having all necessary tools readily available—such as endotracheal tubes, laryngoscope, suction devices, and adjunctive airway management tools—helps minimize the time the patient may be compromised and reduces the risk of complications. It allows the paramedic or medical provider to act swiftly and confidently in a critical situation without fumbling for equipment.

In an emergency or tactical scenario, time is of the essence, and being prepared with the appropriate equipment can significantly impact patient outcomes. Additionally, checking and organizing these tools ahead of time allows for a quick assessment of the equipment's functionality, ensuring that anything necessary for the procedure is operational and sterile.

Other options involve important aspects of patient care but are not immediate priorities for the intubation procedure itself. Family consultation, post-operative care planning, and medication reconciliation are typically dealt with after the airway management has been secured and are not directly related to the technical aspects of intubation.